FEMA approved the TWC's request for Lost Wages Assistance
The funding is through the week ending September 5, 2020 and may provide an additional $300 in payments to qualified claimants.
Press Release
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved the Texas Workforce Commission’s (TWC) request for Lost Wages Assistance (LWA) funding for the week ending September 5, 2020. This funding provides for an additional $300 in payments to qualified claimants.
FEMA’s process for releasing funds does not line up exactly with TWC’s payment system. TWC must request the funds weekly and must ensure that funds are available each week before the $300 in benefits is released. Claimants should continue requesting payments on their scheduled payment request day.
Texas was one of the first states to apply and be approved. TWC will continue to provide Texas claimants with updates when FEMA approves requests for LWA funding. Since all states are drawing monies from the same fund, the exact date that FEMA funding will run out is not known.
TWC - $600 Per Week Will End
The Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation or the additional $600 per week will end with the benefit week ending in July 25, 2020.
Press Release
The Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation or the additional $600 per week will end with the benefit week ending in July 25, 2020. The CARES Act was passed by the U.S. Congress. TWC is responsible for overseeing the payments but only the U.S. Congress can extend the Act.
Will I continue to receive my state unemployment benefits?
Yes. You will continue to receive your state unemployment benefits for as long as you are eligible.
Why is this additional $600/week ending?
TWC does not have the authority to extend the $600 a week benefit. The additional $600/week is part of the CARES Act that was passed by the U.S. Congress. TWC is responsible for overseeing the payments but only the U.S Congress can extend the Act.
When is my last payment with the additional $600/week?
If you request payment for the weeks of 7/18 and 7/25: You will receive the additional $600 for both weeks.
If you request payment for the weeks of 7/25 and 8/1:You will receive the additional $600 for only the week of 7/25.
Why does the additional $600/week end in Texas on 7/25 when the CARES Act lists 7/31?
The CARES Act provides federal reimbursement to states for an additional $600 per week. 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.
For more information about the CARES Act or your unemployment benefit, please visit our FAQ page.
Those in need of local assistance with utilities or rent are encouraged to call 211.