Texas Workforce Commission - Unemployment Benefits Claims Department

I had a question about my unemployment claim because I filed one but had not heard back from anyone. I was afraid that maybe I didn't file it correctly or it got lost in the system, so I called the Texas Workforce Commission to check on it. In the end, I did get an answer about the situation, but it does take some time to navigate the directory system. 

I am sure that they get a lot of phone calls on a regular basis, so this is likely why there are so many directory options to sort through before you can talk to someone. In addition to needing help with a filed claim, an employer could need help, or someone could need to contest submitted information. 

Despite that, it is nice to report that once you get placed on hold, you don't have to wait very long to talk to someone; it's just a process to get to that point. I called mid-afternoon on a Wednesday, so that seems like it would be a peak time to me, although I can't say for sure. 

When I first called, I was welcomed and asked to press 1 for English or 2 for Spanish. I pressed 1, and then I received a new set of instructions. The automated voice said, "If you know your party's extension, press 1. If you are calling about unemployment benefits, press 2. If you are an employee, press 3." I pressed two because I wanted to check on my unemployment claim and was led to the next directory. 

This time, it stated that to find out the status of your unemployment claim or a payment has been made, press 1. To apply for unemployment benefits or for questions about existing claims, press 2. For TRA claims, press 3. For federal or military claims, press 4. For disaster unemployment claims, press 5. 

I chose option 2 once again, and then I had to go through another set of directory questions. At this point, it seemed like they were slightly repetitive, but I kept going because there was no other option. 

This time, it said, "To apply for unemployment benefits, press 1. For questions, problems, or to make changes to your existing claims, press 2. If you are responding to a request for information or you know your party's name or extension, press 3. For all other questions, press 4."

I chose option two again and finally got to a directory that allowed me to talk to someone. The options this time were: For problems with Teleserve or internet payment requests, press 1. If you have questions about mail you received, press 2. To obtain an address or telephone number or update your info, press 3. For questions or problems with your debit card or direct deposit, press 4. For all other information and assistance, press 5. 

Finally, at four and a half minutes, I was able to press 5 and was put on hold. The hold music was classical, and it wasn't too bad. Plus, it only took about a minute to connect with an agent from there.