How Much Are Texas Unemployment Benefits?

Unemployment benefits provide temporary financial assistance to individuals who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own. These benefits offer a safety net, helping to bridge the gap between employment and re-employment by providing a portion of lost wages. Understanding the specific regulations and processes in Texas is important for anyone seeking this support. This article clarifies key aspects of unemployment benefits administered by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC).

Who Qualifies for Benefits

To be eligible for unemployment benefits in Texas, individuals must meet several criteria established by the Texas Workforce Commission. A primary requirement involves having earned sufficient wages during a specific “base period” before filing a claim. The base period typically covers the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters preceding the effective date of the claim.

Another fundamental condition for eligibility is that unemployment must be “through no fault of your own.” This generally includes situations such as layoffs, company closures, or reductions in hours. Conversely, individuals who voluntarily resign without good cause related to work, or who are terminated due to misconduct, are typically not eligible for benefits. Claimants must also be able and available to work, actively seeking new employment to maintain their eligibility. Additionally, applicants must satisfy Texas residency or work authorization requirements.

How Weekly Benefits Are Calculated

The amount an eligible individual receives each week, known as the Weekly Benefit Amount (WBA), is determined by wages earned during the base period. The Texas Workforce Commission calculates the WBA by taking the wages from the highest-earning quarter within an applicant’s base period and dividing that amount by 25. The resulting figure is then rounded to the nearest dollar.

Texas has established minimum and maximum weekly benefit amounts. The Weekly Benefit Amount can range from a minimum of $74 to a maximum of $591, depending on an individual’s past earnings. For instance, if an individual’s highest quarterly earnings during the base period were $14,775, dividing that by 25 would yield the maximum weekly benefit of $591. After an application is processed, eligible individuals receive a “Notice of Unemployment Benefits” that details their specific calculated WBA.

How Long Benefits Can Be Received

In Texas, the maximum duration for receiving unemployment benefits is up to 26 weeks. This duration applies if the individual continues to meet all eligibility requirements, including actively searching for work. The total amount an individual can receive over the benefit year is known as the Maximum Benefit Amount (MBA).

The MBA is calculated as 26 times the Weekly Benefit Amount or 27 percent of all wages earned during the base period, whichever is less. It is important to note that the benefit year begins on the Sunday of the week an individual applies and remains in effect for 52 weeks. While federal or state extensions can occur during periods of high unemployment, these are not standard entitlements and are only implemented under specific economic conditions.

Key Information for Your Application

Applicants will need their Social Security Number (SSN) and a valid state Driver’s License or state Identification Card number. Detailed employment history for the last 18 months is required, including the full business name, address, and phone number for all employers.

For each employer, applicants must provide the first and last dates worked, and be prepared to explain the reason for separation. If the applicant is not a U.S. citizen, their Alien Registration Number and the expiration date of their work authorization will be necessary. Provide direct deposit information, such as the bank name, routing number, and account number, to ensure timely receipt of benefits.