TWC Cautions Claimants Regarding Fraudulent Calls
Texas Workforce Commission • April 8, 2020
The Texas Workforce Commission
(TWC) advises those applying for Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits that individuals misrepresenting TWC may capitalize on the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 and attempt to secure sensitive, personal information through deceit.
TWC is reminding all UI claimants and unemployed workers to practice caution when providing people with personally identifiable information. Unfortunately, in situations such as the one we are experiencing because of COVID-19, there can be unemployment insurance scams and fraudulent phone calls.
Below are some indications that you may be a victim of an attempted scam by someone pretending to be a TWC Specialist:
- The individual asks for a credit card number.
- The individual says there is a fee for processing the claim.
- The individual asks for more than the last four digits of your bank account and routing number.
When you are contacted by a legitimate TWC Specialist they will need to confirm your identity and will ask for your Social Security Number and date of birth. However, a TWC Specialist will never ask for a credit card number or state that there is any kind of fee associated with your claim. There is no fee for filing for UI and a TWC Specialist cannot change banking information, so the full number is unnecessary.
If you sent TWC an email, left a message, or reached out using social media, you should expect a phone call from a TWC Specialist. You may receive calls from TWC on other issues concerning your claim, but always be vigilant when providing personal information. When in doubt, hang up.
If you encounter anyone who’s identity you are not sure of, do not give out your:
- Phone Number
- Address
- Social Security Number
- Personal Identification Number (PIN)
Impersonating a public servant and identity theft are crimes punishable by law. If you believe you have been the victim of identity theft visit https://www.identitytheft.gov/.
Wednesday, November 5 | 10 AM - 1 PM | Maude Cobb Convention Center
SNAP Benefits are not handled by Workforce Solutions East Texas offices. Our staff members cannot assist with your inquiries regarding the Federal Government Shutdown's effect on your benefits. To aid in these concerns, we are sharing information below from Texas Health and Human Services . 2025 Federal Government Shutdown With the federal government shut down, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission is monitoring how it may impact your benefits. Check this page for updates . SNAP SNAP benefits for November won’t be issued if the federal government shutdown continues past Oct. 27. WIC WIC benefits are not affected currently. TANF TANF benefits are not affected currently. Medicaid Medicaid is not affected currently. CHIP CHIP is not affected currently. Find answers about SNAP and other benefits in the Federal Government Shutdown FAQ (PDF) .
We are pleased to introduce the newest officers of our Board of Directors: Chair Gene Keenon, Municipal Services Manager at Republic Services, and Vice Chair Pam Pearson, Administrator of the Wills Point Economic Development Corporation. Keenon represents the Private Business sector and was appointed to the board on December 23, 2014. Pearson represents Economic Development and was appointed on March 17, 2015. Both have dedicated many years to the board and served as chairs of subcommittees, bringing valuable experience and insights to guide the board in supporting our community. "It is a great honor to accept the appointment as Chairman of the Board for the East Texas Workforce Solutions and to serve as a representative of the private business community. I am deeply committed to advancing the mission and values of this exceptional organization," said Keenon. "Having the privilege of doing business throughout all 14 counties in our region, I understand both the challenges and opportunities that exist within our workforce. I pledge to represent our entire area with integrity, dedication, and a steadfast focus on the prosperity and well-being of our citizens. "The Board’s team of dedicated and diverse volunteers plays a vital role in overseeing millions of dollars in training and financial aid programs that empower individuals through childcare support, education, and job-readiness. I have witnessed firsthand the importance of these services—growing up watching my own mother work tirelessly to support her family as a single mom without a high school education —and I know how transformative such resources can be. "Our collective mission is to improve the quality of life for all East Texans. That mission is also my personal goal, and I am eager to work alongside these board members and dedicated staff to strengthen our communities and expand opportunities for all." The Workforce Solutions East Texas Board works with the region’s chief elected officials and sets local workforce policy. The volunteer board is made up mostly of private sector members, along with representatives from labor, education, and community organizations. We proudly serve Anderson, Camp, Cherokee, Gregg, Harrison, Henderson, Marion, Panola, Rains, Rusk, Smith, Upshur, Van Zandt, and Wood counties. “I am truly honored by the opportunity to serve as Vice Chair of the Workforce Solutions East Texas Board," said Pearson. It is a privilege to work alongside such a dedicated group of leaders who share a strong commitment to strengthening our workforce and supporting the employers, families, and communities across our region. I have great confidence in the talent, experience, and collaboration of this board as we continue advancing opportunities for East Texans.” We look forward to Keenon and Pearson’s leadership as we plan initiatives that support local businesses and economic growth. Join us in congratulating them at our next Workforce Solutions East Texas Board Meeting on November 12 at our Tyler center located at 4100 Troup Hwy, Tyler, TX 75703.
