Texas Triggers Additional Unemployment Benefit Extension Period
Texas Workforce Commission • July 1, 2020
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On June 26, 2020, the Department of Labor notified the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) that the state triggered onto High Unemployment Period (HUP). Beginning July 5, HUP will allow for up to an additional 7 weeks, or 30 percent of the regular maximum balance, immediately following the conclusion of State Extended Benefits (State EB). The first week TWC anticipates individuals transitioning to HUP is the week ending October 3, 2020.
HUP was triggered when the seasonally adjusted total unemployment rates (TUR) exceeded 8 percent and were greater than 110 percent of the corresponding rate in both prior years. In May, the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for Texas was 13 percent. A detailed breakdown of Texas unemployment information for May can be found at TexasLmi.com.
Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation), passed as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), previously extended unemployment benefits for 13 weeks starting March 29, 2020. State EB, triggered on May 31, 2020, provided up to an additional 13 weeks starting July 4. Individuals qualifying for 13 weeks of State EB would transition to HUP the week ending October 3, 2020. While triggered on, HUP increases the maximum potential number of weeks for claimants on regular unemployment to 59 weeks and individuals on Pandemic Unemployment Assistance from 39 weeks to 46 weeks.
State Extended Benefits and High Unemployment Period Benefits are only available while the Texas economy meets qualifications for triggering them on. If Texas triggers off these measures, additional weeks will no longer be available regardless of balance shown on claimants’ accounts.
Since the week ending in March 13, 2020, TWC has taken 3.6 million initial claims and paid out $16.1 billion in unemployment benefits. For more information about unemployment benefits paid or to view an interactive map of claims, visit TWC’s UI by the Numbers page.
To apply for unemployment benefits or to request payment visit ui.texasworkforce.org. All claimants should keep their mailing and email addresses current in the unemployment benefits services system
to prevent delays in communication. No action is required by the customer, if qualified TWC will automatically enroll the customer in HUP. The customer should simply continue filing their payment request timely if they are still unemployed.
Deadline for applications - September 26, 2025
Workforce Solutions East Texas (WSET) and Texas Workforce Solutions -Vocational Rehabilitation Services (TWS-VRS) invite you to a celebration event on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, from 9:30 am to noon at the Longview Workforce Solutions Center located at 1905 W. Loop 281, Longview, TX 75604. At WSET, we are deeply committed to fostering an environment that welcomes all abilities in the workforce. National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is a powerful reminder of the immense talent and untapped potential that individuals with disabilities bring to our workplaces. Whether you are an employer seeking to hire individuals with disabilities, an organization championing disability rights, or someone seeking to learn more TWS-VRS we invite you to attend our upcoming event. Our event promises insightful discussions, valuable networking opportunities, stories from participants who are successfully navigating their journey after receiving services through TWS-VRS along with those business partners who have hired them. There will also be resources aimed at helping businesses take significant steps toward creating a workplace that includes all abilities on their team. Let's come together to celebrate our 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). We celebrate the value and talent that all Americans - including people with disabilities – bring to our businesses, organizations, and communities. Join us in the momentous occasion as we celebrate this milestone in our nation’s history.
When Malachi Whedbee joined the Summer Earn and Learn (SEAL) program, he saw it as an opportunity to gain experience, learn new skills, and contribute to his community. What he didn’t expect was how much of an impact his dedication would make—both on his future and on the people around him. Through SEAL, Malachi began working full-time at the Upshur Rural Library, clocking in at 8:00 a.m. every morning and working until 5:00 p.m. His days were filled with tasks like completing computer library entries, assisting with various projects, and lending a hand wherever needed. But for Malachi, these duties weren’t just boxes to check—they were chances to prove himself. And prove himself he did. Malachi’s exceptional work ethic showed in everything he did. He was always on time, completed assignments with precision, and eagerly stepped up for additional responsibilities. His positive attitude was contagious, creating a welcoming environment for both staff and patrons. Mrs. King, the library’s supervisor, quickly recognized that Malachi was more than just a temporary hire—he was an asset. Describing him as “outgoing, dependable, and hardworking,” she praised his professionalism and the joy he brought to the workplace. By the end of the program, Malachi’s efforts had done more than meet expectations—they had opened a door. Mrs. King was so impressed that she offered him an interview for a permanent position at the library. With the same enthusiasm and determination he brought to every day on the job, Malachi accepted the opportunity. Malachi’s journey through SEAL is more than a personal achievement—it’s a shining example of how young adults with disabilities can break barriers and build meaningful careers when given the chance. His story is a reminder that talent, dedication, and opportunity are the real building blocks of success.
