TWC Reinstates Unemployment Insurance (UI) Work Search Requirement
Texas Workforce Commission • October 13, 2020
AUSTIN – The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) announced today that as the Texas economy continues to open, TWC will reinstate work search requirements, which has been suspended since March, but will resume on November 1, 2020. Work search is a federal requirement to receive unemployment benefits. Individuals will continue to receive benefits but must show an active effort to obtain new employment.
All individuals receiving unemployment benefits will need to complete a designated number of work searches, beginning on the date listed on their work search notification document. The work search notification document can be found in their correspondence inbox at ui.texasworkforce.org
or U.S. Postal Mailbox. For example, individuals with an initial or additional claim the week of November 1st – work search activities would be effective the week beginning November 8th. For individuals with existing claims requesting payment the week of November 1st, work search activities would be effective the week beginning November 15. TWC encourages all claimants to refer to their work search notification document.
“The COVID-19 crisis has been difficult for everyone, creating new challenges for workers, employers, and their families,” said TWC Executive Director Ed Serna. “Let me be clear, we are not over it, but we’re seeing employment opportunities begin to bounce back in Texas as our economy restarts. There are opportunities out there, and getting Texans back to work and businesses up and running again will create even more.”
There are approximately over 695,000 jobs available in Texas on WorkInTexas.com, the state’s online jobs portal, in addition to jobs available elsewhere.
Unemployment insurance benefits are not intended as a replacement for a job, but a temporary benefit to help workers resume employment. The work search requirement does not mean workers must take the first job available. It means that they must show an active effort to obtain new employment to continue benefits. As long as they do this, their benefits will continue for as long as they are eligible.
Furloughed workers with a definite return to work date 12 weeks of the layoff are exempt from work search requirements. Return to work dates beyond 12 weeks can result in the waiver of work search at the discretion of TWC. While self-employed individuals who intend to reopen their business do not need to complete work search activities. They do need to take steps to reopen their business. Self-employed individuals who do not intend to reopen their business will need to complete work search activities.
TWC has determined that acceptable work search activities include, but are not limited to:
- Registering on WorkInTexas.com. For help with the registration process, go to WorkInTexas.com, scroll down to the “News and Announcements” section, and select “Registration Resources and Website Usage Tips.” For support, contact your local Workforce Solutions Office
- Searching for jobs on WorkInTexas.com and using the Virtual Recruiter tool to receive alerts about new jobs that match your skills.
- Obtaining and following up on job contacts from WorkInTexas.com or Workforce Solutions office staff.
- Registering at a public workforce office in the state you live in if you do not live or work in Texas.
- Registering for work with a private employment agency, placement service of a school/college/university, or registering with other electronic job-matching systems (does not replace WorkInTexas.com registration).
- Making in-person visits, completing a job application, or interviewing with employers who may reasonably be expected to have openings for suitable work. The job application can be submitted in person, online, by fax, or in any other manner directed by the employer and appropriate for the type of work being sought.
- Mailing a job application and/or a résumé as instructed by a public job notice.
- Creating a reemployment plan.
- Creating or uploading a résumé to online job boards.
- Participating in work-related networking events such as job clubs or job fairs, or employment-related workshops that offer instruction in improving the job seeker’s skills for obtaining employment.
- Taking advantage of reemployment services and resources available at your nearest Workforce Solutions office virtually. For more details, contact your local Workforce Solutions office. Reemployment resources include:
- Obtaining and using labor market information.
- Participating in reemployment services designed for job seekers.
- Participating in skills assessments for occupational matching.
- Participating in instructional workshops, such as résumé preparation and enhancement, job-search techniques, and interviewing skills.
- A Metrix course that is completed with a passing score can be one of your work search activities.
- Participating in targeted training opportunities designed to improve skills.
What resources are available to help individuals search for work?
TWC has over 180 workforce solutions offices around the state ready to assist claimants with everything from resume writing to job searching. TWC has partnered with Metrix Learning to offer over 5,000 online courses free to all Texans. These courses count as work search activities. Individuals wishing to sign up can do so through their WorkinTexas.com
account. Additionally, Job seekers are encouraged to visit WorkInTexas.com, the state’s job portal, for access to hundreds of thousands of public and private sector jobs, as well as links to education and training opportunities, resume assistance, and other resources.
How do claimants submit proof of work search to TWC?
Claimants do not need to regularly submit proof of work search. During their payment requests, they will be asked to certify that they completed work search requirements for the request period. TWC may occasionally ask claimants for a record of their activity. Claimants must keep a detailed log of their activity recording the date and details of the work search. TWC can request this activity log anytime during their benefit year.
Do Self-Employed individuals need to complete work search activity?
Self-employed PUA claimants are required to undertake work activities to resume their business and must certify this when requesting payment for unemployment benefits bi-weekly. If the business will not reopen, Self-employed PUA claimants are required to perform work search activities, meet the minimum number of weekly work search activities, and apply for jobs suitable to their skills and talents. They also have a resume waiting for their completion in WorkInTexas.com, the opportunity to apply for work through WorkInTexas.com, and have the same resources available to them as other job seekers through Workforce Solutions offices.
Do Furloughed workers need to complete work search activity?
Claimants who believe they are in temporary layoff status should contact their employer regarding their return to work date. If they do not receive a definite return to work date, they should plan to search for full-time work and adhere to work search requirements when reinstated. Claimants directed to return to work by their employer must do so immediately.
In Tyler, Texas, veterans are never forgotten—and on November 13, 2025, the Homeless Veterans Stand Down hosted by CampV proved that in a powerful way. The event brought together community organizations, service providers, and volunteers to honor those who have served our country, offering a day of hope, resources, and connection for veterans experiencing homelessness. Workforce Solutions East Texas (WSET) was proud to be in attendance, providing veterans with guidance on employment opportunities, programs, and services, as well as explaining the priority of service available to every veteran we serve. Our staff met veterans where they are, listening to their stories, understanding their challenges, and helping them take steps toward stability, self-sufficiency, and renewed purpose. The atmosphere was one of respect and gratitude. Each handshake, conversation, and shared smile reflected the deep appreciation our community has for those who have dedicated their lives to service. Veterans were able to connect with potential employers, learn about training programs, and explore the array of support services designed to help them rebuild their lives. Events like the Homeless Veterans Stand Down are more than outreach, they are a reminder that no veteran stands alone. They highlight the resilience, courage, and determination of those who have served, and the profound impact of a community willing to step up and support them. Workforce Solutions East Texas remains committed to ensuring that every veteran has access to the resources, guidance, and opportunities they deserve. By meeting veterans with empathy, respect, and actionable solutions, we help transform uncertainty into hope, and challenges into possibilities. Through events like this, we are reminded that honoring our heroes is not just about words, it is about action, care, and unwavering support for those who have given so much for our nation.
One key factor and benefit for individuals with disabilities in the Vocational Rehabilitation Services program is VR’s commitment to Individualized Services when seeking employment assistance. But what does that mean to the people receiving these services? One of the key factors and benefits for individuals with disabilities in going through the Vocational Rehabilitation Services program when seeking assistance with employment is VR’s commitment to Individualized Services. But what does that mean to the people receiving these services? Every person who comes to VR has a different goal, a different disability, and a different life experience. This means that two people with the same diagnosis (for instance, hearing loss) may receive vastly different services. If the first person to come in with hearing loss is in their 50s, has worked in a highly physical and loud environment their entire life, and is looking to get assistance so that they can keep their current job but hear over the radio or during safety meetings, they may receive counseling related to hearing aids, as well as how to protect their existing hearing and ensure that the hearing aids they do get are able to withstand high temperatures, won’t move around when they are sweating, and ensure that they are able to dry thoroughly at the end of each day. The second person may be attending school with the goal of going into the medical field. The challenges they face would be ensuring that they can hear their instructors and may require assistance from another student as a Note Taker, different styles of hearing aids that connect directly with medical equipment such as a specialized stethoscope, or even a microphone that can be clipped to the instructor or clinician to ensure the customer can hear them properly while learning. Even when looking into who is going to provide these services, whether it be Job Placement, Medical Assistance, Assistive Devices, or Education Assistance, each customer has the right to make an Informed Choice. Your counselor will review the recommended services, go over any pros and cons, and discuss the availability of providers that have existing contracts with the agency so that the person receiving the service or item is able to make the choice that suits them best with as much information as possible, rather than having no say in how their case will go. If you or someone you know has a disability, medical or mental health diagnosis that is impacting their ability to go to work or advance in their careers, please reach out to Vocational Rehabilitation Services today!
On November 5, 2025, the Maude Cobb Convention Center in Longview became more than just a venue—it became a place of opportunity, gratitude, and hope. Workforce Solutions East Texas (WSET) proudly hosted its local chapter of the statewide veteran-focused hiring event, Hiring Red, White & You!, bringing together veterans, transitioning service members, military spouses, employers, and staffing professionals from across East Texas. In its 14th year, the event has grown into a vital bridge between the brave men and women who have served and the employers eager to welcome their unique skills and dedication. This year, 69 employers and 437 job seekers came together with purpose and determination. The morning began with a moving pre-event ceremony at 9:30 a.m., setting a tone of respect, honor, and inspiration. Highlighting the ceremony was a heartfelt performance by Workforce Solutions East Texas Outreach staff member Kendale Johnson, whose presence and talent captivated attendees and reminded everyone of the power of service, community, and perseverance. From 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., the convention center buzzed with energy and connection. Veterans and their spouses engaged with organizations ranging from American Electric Power and AshRoq Financial to Turner Industries and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. For many, the event wasn’t just a job fair—it was a turning point. On-the-spot interviews and same-day job offers underscored the immediate impact of bringing these communities together. Employers left inspired as well. Ben from Money Concepts remarked, “Thank you very much for inviting me out to the job fair yesterday. This was the most organized and professionally prepared event.” Stone Bridge Professional Services reflected on the deeper meaning of the day: “The best part was getting to know the personal stories of several decorated veterans and hearing their accomplishments and what they stand for. That's the spice of life right there.” These testimonials capture the heart of the event: fostering meaningful connections, honoring service, and celebrating the resilience of those who have dedicated their lives to our country. Events like Hiring Red, White & You! highlight the extraordinary value veterans and military spouses bring to the workforce—discipline, adaptability, leadership, and unwavering dedication. In turn, employers gain access to talented individuals ready to contribute in manufacturing, utilities, logistics, public service, and beyond. Since 2012, this statewide initiative has connected over 26,000 employers with more than 153,000 job seekers, resulting in 4,300 same-day hires—a testament to its lasting impact. The 2025 Longview event was more than a job fair; it was a celebration of service, a place where stories were shared, opportunities were realized, and futures were shaped. As Workforce Solutions East Texas looks ahead to next year’s event in the Tyler region, the promise is clear: the connections forged here will continue to empower veterans, honor their contributions, and inspire communities across East Texas. Event Highlights: Total job seekers served:438 Employers represented: 69 Workforce Solutions East Texas and ETCOG thank all participants, employers, and partners who made this event a success. Together, we continue to build a stronger workforce and honor the contributions of our veterans.
