anyone else have problems with the TWC website on payment request days?? it always crashes on me right when im trying to submit

Welcome to the unemployment club! 😅 I've been collecting benefits for about 6 months now and learned a lot through trial and error. Just to add to what others have said - TWC also sends text notifications when your payment is processed, so you don't have to keep checking the card constantly. You can sign up for these in your online account under "Contact Preferences." Also, if you ever have issues with the ReliaCard (like it gets damaged or stolen), you can request a replacement through US Bank, not TWC. Keep that customer service number handy because the card sometimes randomly gets declined at certain merchants for no reason. Good luck with your job search!

website seems to be working again! just logged in and was able to check my claim status. might wanna try now before it crashes again lol

Glad to hear the website is back up! For anyone still having issues, I'd recommend clearing your browser cache and cookies before trying to log in. Sometimes during outages like this, cached data can cause problems even after the system is restored. Also worth bookmarking the direct login page (ui.texasworkforce.org) instead of going through the main TWC site - it tends to be more stable during high traffic periods.

To answer your follow-up question about documentation: When you apply, you'll need to provide your Alien Registration Number or whatever identification number is on your work authorization document. TWC will verify your work authorization status through the SAVE system (Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements). As for work search requirements that someone mentioned - you'll need to keep track of your work search activities in your TWC account online. You'll report these activities when you request payment every two weeks. And regarding the wait time - unfortunately, 3-5 weeks for first payment is pretty standard these days, especially for cases that might need additional verification like non-citizen status. You should apply immediately to start the clock.

Just wanted to follow up on the safety violation angle - if you have any witnesses to the unsafe conditions you reported, try to get their contact info now while you still can. Once you're no longer an employee, it might be harder to reach coworkers who could back up your story if the employer contests your claim. Also, if you took any photos of the unstable shelving or other hazards, those could be valuable evidence. Texas Labor Code Section 411.082 protects workers from retaliation for reporting safety violations, so you potentially have strong grounds here. The timing of your termination right after reporting safety issues is pretty suspicious and TWC will take that into account.

UPDATE: My check finally arrived today! It was postmarked January 2nd, so it's been sitting in USPS limbo for over 2 weeks. Thanks everyone for your help - I'm definitely setting up direct deposit for my next payment request so I don't have to stress about this again.

So glad you got your check! This is exactly why I always tell people to be patient with TWC mail during the holidays - USPS gets absolutely slammed and things sit in sorting facilities forever. Two weeks in postal limbo is actually pretty typical for January. Direct deposit is definitely the smart move going forward - you'll get your payments in 2-3 days instead of potentially weeks. Just make sure your bank account info is correct when you set it up!

one more thing - check with ur county veterans service office. they sometimes have emergency funds 4 vets in ur exact situation. helped my buddy last year when he was in between benefits

Hey Ravi, I'm really sorry you're going through this tough situation. As a fellow veteran who went through a similar experience, I wanted to mention a couple of additional resources that might help bridge the gap while you're waiting for your VA disability claim: 1. Check if your state has a State Veterans Home program - some offer temporary housing assistance for veterans in financial distress 2. Look into Operation Homefront if your injuries are service-connected - they provide emergency financial assistance specifically for military families 3. The American Legion and VFW often have emergency relief funds that can help with rent, utilities, and medical bills Also, when you file your SSDI claim, make sure to request expedited processing due to your military service and current financial hardship. The combination of being a veteran + medical retirement + financial emergency can sometimes speed things up. Don't give up - the system is frustrating but there are people and organizations out there specifically designed to help veterans in your exact situation. You served our country and deserve support during this difficult transition.