Texas now dispersing $600 weekly unemployment payments from federal stimulus, agency says

Texans may be eligible to receive benefits if they have been laid off or furloughed or had their hours reduced.

The agency is also equipped now to serve independent contractors or self-employed people who have lost business as a result of the coronavirus shutdowns, Gamez said.

The Texas Workforce Commission will ensure that all qualified applicants for unemployment benefits receive their payments covering back to when they lost their job or saw their hours reduced, even if they apply later, Gamez said. This applies back to March 8, he said.

Residents who qualify for unemployment can apply at the Texas Workforce Commission website. This is the preferred way for people to file, Gamez said.

The agency has also expanded its call center staffing and hours. The lines are now open seven days a week from 7 a.m.-7 p.m.