I'm so sorry you're dealing with this stress! The good news is that appeals for work search requirement misunderstandings do have a decent success rate, especially when it's clearly an honest mistake like yours. Since you mentioned you were on unemployment in 2023 with the 2-activity requirement, that actually strengthens your case - it shows you had legitimate reason to be confused about the current requirements. A few additional tips for your appeal: 1) Include the specific dates you completed your 2 work search activities and what they were (online applications, networking calls, etc.) to demonstrate good faith effort, 2) Mention that you've been otherwise compliant with all other TWC requirements, and 3) State clearly that you now understand the 3-activity requirement and will comply going forward. The 14-day appeal deadline is firm, so definitely get that submitted ASAP. And yes, absolutely keep requesting payments with 3+ documented activities each week while your appeal is pending. Hang in there - this kind of bureaucratic mistake happens more often than you'd think, and TWC does recognize that people can genuinely misunderstand changing requirements!

I just went through this exact same situation about 6 months ago! The stress is absolutely terrible, especially when you're depending on those payments. Here's what worked for me: I appealed immediately (which you've already done - good job!) and made sure to be super thorough in documenting everything going forward. One thing that really helped my case was that I printed out screenshots from the TWC website showing the old requirements from when I was previously unemployed, compared to the current requirements. This visual evidence of how the rules changed really seemed to resonate with the appeals officer. Also, don't let anyone discourage you about the process taking forever - mine was actually resolved in about 3 weeks, and I got all my back payments once it was approved. The key is staying on top of your weekly requests and doing those 3 work searches religiously. You're handling this the right way by being proactive and getting good advice from this community. Keep us updated on how it goes!

keep us updated!! i hope it works out for you!! the system is so unfair sometimes.

I went through something similar last year, though not quite as long a delay. A few additional tips that helped me: 1. Request a copy of your complete claim file from TWC before the hearing - you're entitled to see everything they have, including what your employer submitted 2. If your employer is claiming you were fired for misconduct, ask them to provide specific documentation of warnings, write-ups, or policies you allegedly violated 3. Keep the focus on facts, not emotions - even though it's infuriating to deal with this so long after the fact The good news is that TWC generally doesn't like to reverse determinations without compelling new evidence. Since you were already approved and followed all the rules during your benefit period, you're in a stronger position than someone appealing an initial denial. Also consider filing a complaint with TWC about the excessive delay if this causes you financial hardship - there should be reasonable time limits on when employers can challenge determinations.

UPDATE: I finally got through!! I used that Claimyr service that someone mentioned above. Got a callback with a TWC agent in about 1.5 hours. Found out the issue was that my previous employer contested my reason for separation (claimed I quit when I was actually laid off). The agent helped me submit the right documentation and said my payments should process within 3-5 business days. Honestly worth it after wasting days trying to call myself. Wish the regular phone system wasn't such a disaster though!

Congrats on finally getting through! Your situation is exactly why I tell everyone to document EVERYTHING when they get laid off. Always get that separation paperwork in writing if possible. Employers contest claims all the time to keep their unemployment insurance rates down - it's basically free for them to dispute it and hope you give up. Glad the agent was able to help you submit the right docs. Definitely keep checking that correspondence inbox like AstroAce said - you'll want to see that determination letter to make sure everything's officially resolved in your favor.

Update to my earlier comment: I just checked TWC's official documentation. If you missed payment requests because the system didn't allow you to request them (as opposed to simply forgetting), you can file for what's called "backdated payment requests" after winning your appeal. You'll need to explain that the system didn't provide the option. Don't wait though - call them now to document your situation and get proper guidance for your specific case.

I'm going through something similar right now - filed my appeal two weeks ago and just realized I haven't been requesting payments because the option disappeared from my account too! This thread is a lifesaver. I had no idea we were supposed to keep requesting during appeals. Called Tele-Serv this morning after reading these comments and was able to submit my request for this week. For anyone else in this situation, the Tele-Serv number (800-558-8321) does work even when your online account doesn't show the payment request option. Just have your SSN and PIN ready. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences here - this could have cost me weeks of benefits!

UPDATE: I wanted to thank everyone for the helpful advice! I spoke with my HR department and showed them the handbook section about salary continuation. They're processing it now and said I should be covered for this week at 60% of my normal pay. Not perfect but WAY better than nothing! Also talked to my landlord who said he'd work with me if the payment is a few days late. Sometimes just asking directly for help works better than I expected. Thanks again everyone!

This is such a great outcome! Your experience is a perfect example of why it's so important to thoroughly read through your employee handbook - there are often benefits and protections that people don't know exist. The salary continuation benefit you found is exactly the kind of safety net that should bridge these gaps between sick leave and other programs. Also really glad to hear your landlord was understanding. Many landlords would rather work with a good tenant who communicates proactively than deal with the hassle of eviction proceedings. Hope your recovery goes smoothly and you're back to 100% soon! Thanks for updating us - it's helpful for others who might find themselves in similar situations to see that there can be solutions beyond just TWC unemployment benefits.