Return to Work Guidance
Texas Workforce Commission • May 4, 2020
Frequently Asked Questions: Guidance for Unemployment Claimants Returning To Work
Healthy Unemployment Claimants are Encouraged to Return to Work if Offered
Exceptions include:
• High risk individuals
• Individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19
• Individuals living with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19
• Those quarantined by the recommendation of a health care provider
• Those that cannot find sufficient child care.
Q:
My Employer wants me to return to work but I don’t have child care due to COVID-19, can I continue receiving benefits?
A:
Workers who cannot find sufficient child care, and school-aged children cannot attend school due to COVID-19 closures may continue to receive unemployment benefits.
Q: I am unable to return to work during COVID-19, how do I report my reasoning?
A:
TWC will investigate and handle each on a case-by-case basis. If your employer offers you work, communicate with them as to why you are unable to return. If you are able to come to an agreement on accommodations, you do not need to alert TWC. When you next request payment, indicate that you were offered work and refused. Your employer will report this information to TWC as well. TWC will investigate your case and contact both you and your employer. While the investigation occurs you will continue to receive payments.
Q:
Will someone lose their unemployment if they're offered their job back, but they say no because they're afraid of the COVID-19 situation?
A: We're not going to just cut somebody off because they didn't go back to work. We're going to evaluate each of those situations on a case-by-case basis.
Q:
Someone living with me tested positive for COVID-19 but my employer wants me to return to work. If I do not return, can I continue to receive unemployment benefits?
A:
Yes. Those living in the same household as someone who tested positive for COVID-19 can continue to receive benefits after refusing work.
Q:
My Employer wants me to return to work but im considered high risk. If I don’t go back do I lose my benefits?
A:
Those who are high risk for COVID-19 including people 65 years of age or older, and/or individuals with underlying health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, or a weakened immune system as described on the DSHS website can continue to receive unemployment benefits upon refusal to return to work.
Source: Texas Workforce Commission
When Princess Tyeskie first walked into Workforce Solutions East Texas, she carried a deep determination to build a better life for herself and her children. As a single mother with experience in fast food and retail, she was ready for something more—something stable, meaningful, and aligned with the future she dreamed of. Through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Program, Princess was placed at Dr. Willis Longview Footcare Clinic. It was a new environment, but she stepped into it with courage and purpose. Her professionalism, reliability, and warm spirit quickly stood out, and she soon became a trusted part of the team. By the end of her work experience, Princess had gained more than new skills—she had earned a direct hire with the clinic as a Medical Administrative Assistant. It was a life-changing moment that reflected her determination and the power of the opportunities WIOA provides. When asked about her experience, Princess shared: “Through the Workforce Solutions East Texas Youth Program, I was given the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the medical field—the area I aspire to specialize in.” During her Work Experience at Dr. Willis Longview Footcare Clinic, Princess quickly demonstrated the professionalism, compassion, and determination that WSET staff always knew she had. She simply needed the opportunity to show it. The WIOA Work Experience program opened that door. “My dedication and ability to adapt to the clinic’s environment led to me being directly hired after completing my work experience. This achievement reflects my commitment, my work ethic, and my passion for providing quality medical care,” Princess states. Today, Princess stands in a career she once only dreamed about—one that brings stability, pride, and a renewed sense of purpose. Her success is more than a job; it’s a foundation for her children to look up to and build upon. More than that, it’s an invitation—an invitation for others to dream bigger, take the first step, and trust that transformation begins with opportunity. Princess’s journey serves as a reminder that even when life feels heavy, adjusting your crown and moving forward can lead to powerful new beginnings.
Workforce Solutions East Texas recently hosted a Pop-Up Job and Resource Fair in Carthage, creating a one-stop shop for local residents seeking employment opportunities and support services. The event welcomed 32 job seekers, connected them with 4 local employers, and provided access to 3 community resource partners—all working together to help ease the career journey for Panola County residents. The goal of the fair was simple but impactful: bring direct assistance, meaningful connections, and additional support together in one place. Job seekers had the opportunity to speak directly with employers, explore available jobs, and connect with community organizations offering resources that can help remove barriers to employment. A highlight of the event was the introduction of Workforce Solutions East Texas’ new Mobile Career Center. The mobile unit is equipped with computers and employment resources and will be available every Wednesday at the Panola County Chamber of Commerce, giving residents continued access to services without needing to travel to a physical office. We were proud to co-partner on this event with our friends at the Panola County Chamber of Commerce, whose continued support of workforce development plays a vital role in strengthening the local community. Their commitment to connecting people with opportunity aligns closely with the mission of Workforce Solutions East Texas. Events like the Carthage Pop-Up Job and Resource Fair demonstrate the power of collaboration and community-focused solutions, helping residents take the next step toward meaningful employment and long-term success.
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