The Recovery Act invested millions in new projects that are improving our infrastructue, repairing homes, and much more. But it also provided millions in direct benefits for families, students, businesses, investors, and more including more than $288 million in various forms of tax relief. Guidance on how to access each of those benefits is below.
Recovery Act Provisions:
- Extension of unemployment benefits to allow an extra 33 weeks
- Weekly increase of $25
- Tax exemption for first $2,400 in UI benefits
- Up to $7 billion for states to modernize eligibility procedures
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To apply for benefits, take the following steps:
1) Gather the following materials:
- Last employer's business name and address
- First and last dates (month, day and year) you worked for your last employer
- Number of hours worked and pay rate if you worked this week (including Sunday)
- Information related to your normal wage
- Alien Registration Number (if not a U.S. citizen or national)
2) Register and apply online through the Texas Workforce Commission
Applicants must create a User ID at this page, then log in and complete the forms using the materials above.
OR
Apply over the phone, Monday – Friday, 7am – 7pm, by calling the UI Tele-Center for your area:
Austin (512) 340 - 4300
Dallas (972) 339 - 6200
El Paso (915) 832 - 6400
Ft Worth (817) 420 - 1600
Houston (281) 983 - 1100
McAllen (956) 984 - 4700
San Antonio (210) 258 - 6600
Others (toll free) 1-800-939-6631
3) Complete the ongoing follow-up requirements
Most people will be required to register to search for work through WorkInTexas.com within three business days of applying for UI benefits. Benefit seekers are also required to actively search for work and submit a contact log to TWC before receiving each benefit payment, and it is necessary to request benefits via phone or internet—they will not be disbursed automatically.
To calculate an estimate of the benefits you can expect if you qualify, click here.
