How Much Unemployment Will I Get in Texas?

Unemployment benefits provide temporary financial assistance to individuals who experience job loss through no fault of their own. The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) administers these benefits. This guide clarifies the factors influencing benefit amounts, the calculation process, and the steps involved in applying for assistance in Texas.

Key Factors for Your Benefit Calculation

The amount of unemployment benefits an individual receives in Texas is determined by their past earnings from covered employment. The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) uses a specific timeframe, known as the “base period,” to assess these wages. This period is crucial for establishing financial eligibility and calculating potential benefit amounts.

The base period is defined as the first four of the last six completed calendar quarters before the effective date of an individual’s claim. For example, if a claim is filed in August 2025, the base period would cover wages earned from April 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025.

In some situations, an “alternative base period” may be used if an individual’s wages in the standard base period are insufficient due to a medically verifiable illness, injury, disability, or pregnancy. This alternative period considers wages earned before the onset of such conditions, provided the medical condition lasted at least seven weeks within a base period quarter. An individual must have filed their claim no later than 24 months after the illness or injury began to qualify for an alternative base period. The highest quarter earnings within the established base period directly influence the weekly benefit amount.

Calculating Your Weekly Benefit Amount

The TWC calculates an individual’s Weekly Benefit Amount (WBA) based on wages earned during their highest-paid quarter within the base period. The formula divides total wages from that quarter by 25, rounded to the nearest dollar.

For instance, if an individual’s highest quarter earnings were $7,500, their WBA would be $300 ($7,500 / 25). The weekly benefit amount in Texas ranges from a minimum of $74 to a maximum of $591. If the calculation results in an amount below the minimum, the individual receives the minimum weekly benefit. If the calculation exceeds the maximum, the benefit is capped at the maximum allowable amount. For example, $20,000 in highest quarter earnings would yield $800, but the benefit would be capped at $591.

Determining Your Benefit Duration

The total duration for unemployment benefits in Texas is linked to an individual’s past earnings during their base period. The standard maximum duration for state unemployment benefits is 26 weeks. However, the total amount of benefits an individual can receive is capped by their earnings. The Maximum Benefit Amount (MBA) is the lesser of two figures: 26 times the Weekly Benefit Amount (WBA) or 27% of total wages earned across all four quarters of the base period.

For example, if an individual’s WBA is $300, their MBA based on the weekly benefit would be $7,800 (26 weeks x $300/week). If their total base period wages were $25,000, 27% of that would be $6,750. The MBA would be $6,750, as it is the lesser amount. Payments cease once this maximum benefit amount is exhausted, even if 26 weeks have not passed.

Benefit duration can also be affected by returning to work, refusing suitable job offers, or other TWC determinations. Individuals must actively search for work and report any earnings while receiving benefits, as partial earnings can reduce the weekly benefit amount.

Applying for Unemployment Benefits

After understanding how potential benefits are calculated, the next step involves applying for unemployment benefits with the TWC. The most efficient way to initiate a claim is online through the TWC’s Unemployment Benefits Services portal. Individuals can also apply by calling a TWC Tele-Center.

When applying, individuals need to provide personal and employment information. This includes their Social Security number, a valid state driver’s license or identification card number, and detailed information about their last employer. Required employer details include the business name, address, phone number, and the exact first and last dates of employment. Any hours worked and pay received during the week of application must also be reported.

After submitting the application, individuals receive confirmation, and the TWC reviews the claim, which may include contacting the last employer. Identity verification may be required; failure to complete this step can delay or deny benefits. To continue receiving payments, individuals must request payment bi-weekly and meet ongoing eligibility requirements, such as actively searching for work and documenting their job search activities.