TWC: State Unemployment Benefits to Continue But $600 Federal Payment Ends July 25
Texas Workforce Commission • July 13, 2020
Other CARES Act Benefits Continue Through December
The Texas Workforce Commission reminds claimants that the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) ends the week of July 25, 2020. FPUC provided an additional $600 per week to claimants who lost work as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Texans will continue to receive state unemployment benefits for the remainder of their claim. For those on regular unemployment that is currently up to a potential 59 weeks and 46 weeks for those on Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). The length of time benefits are available is subject to an individual’s eligibility as well as state economic indicators.
Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation was passed as part of the CARES Act. The program provides federal reimbursement to states for an additional $600 per week. A full benefit week begins on Sunday and ends on Saturday. The Act states that the program ends July 31, but benefits must be discontinued before the end of the month because by law TWC cannot pay partial week benefits. The last full benefit week for the extra $600 is the week ending July 25th. As a result, only payment requests for weeks ending on or before July 25 can include the additional $600. State unemployment benefits will continue to be paid after this date, they simply will not include the additional $600 anymore.
Other provisions of the federal act do not expire until December 26, 2020. This includes Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC), which provides an extra 13 weeks of benefits to persons who exhaust traditional benefits, and Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), which provides up to 46 weeks of benefits to persons who are self-employed or who would not otherwise qualify for state benefits.
For more information on eligibility requirements, available benefits and questions about the unemployment process, visit TWC’s COVID-19 FAQ page.
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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