Pandemic Unemployment Assistance and $600 in Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation Available for Eligible Workers
Texas Workforce Commission • April 14, 2020
The Texas Workforce Commission
(TWC) encourages those who have not yet applied for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) as a result of COVID-19 to apply now. Individuals affected by COVID-19 can apply for PUA benefits online through Unemployment Benefit Services
24 hours a day, seven days a week, or by calling a TWC Tele-Center any day between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. at 800-939-6631. When applying, individuals affected by the pandemic should indicate that as the reason they lost their job.
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance provides up to 39 weeks of unemployment benefits for persons impacted by COVID-19 and covers individuals who are self-employed, who otherwise would not qualify for regular unemployment compensation, or who have exhausted state benefits.
Additionally, TWC has begun rolling out the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC), adding an additional $600 per week for claimants. Individuals receiving Unemployment Insurance (UI) or federal extended benefits qualify for the additional $600.
If you have already applied for traditional UI benefits, you do not need to take any further action to quality for PUA. Do not apply for benefits again. TWC will review eligibility for PUA for all existing applicants automatically and notify claimants by mail or electronic correspondence of their eligibility.
If you are an independent contractor, self-employed or a 1099 worker, you have until December 26, 2020 to provide your 2019 Internal Revenue Service Form 1040 and Schedule C, F, or SE.
Under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act dated March 27, 2020, individuals who are self-employed, seeking part-time employment, or who otherwise would not qualify for regular Unemployment Compensation (UC) or Extended Benefits (EB) under state or federal law or Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) under section 2107 may be eligible for assistance under PUA. Coverage may also include individuals who have exhausted their benefits under regular UC or EB claims under state or federal law, or PEUC.
Tuesday, April 28 | Athens, Longview, Marshall, Palestine, and Tyler
The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) has recognized Dr. Robert Haberle with the Regional Shining Star Award, a distinction reserved for individuals who go above and beyond in service to the region. Unlike traditional awards, the Regional Shining Star Award is not part of a public nomination process. It is presented only in rare cases when someone demonstrates exceptional, long-term commitment to ETCOG and its programs. Dr. Haberle’s 15 years of service make him a clear and deserving recipient. Dr. Haberle has served on the Workforce Solutions East Texas Board since 2011. During that time, he has played a key role in shaping workforce development efforts across the region. Workforce Solutions East Texas operates with an annual budget of more than $60 million, providing no-cost employment and recruitment services to businesses and job seekers. Over the past year alone, those efforts have supported more than 81,000 businesses and individuals. The program has awarded nearly $1 million in job training scholarships, helped thousands of unemployment claimants return to work, and provided child care assistance to more than 9,000 families. It has also invested millions into improving child care quality and supporting local providers. Dr. Haberle’s leadership has helped guide these efforts year after year, contributing to long-term impact across East Texas communities. Board members are appointed by local elected officials, and Dr. Haberle was appointed by Cherokee County Judge Chris Davis. Throughout his tenure, he has served in several leadership roles, including Chair of the Workforce Centers Committee, Vice Chairman, and Board Chairman. From October 2016 through September 2022, he served six years as Chairman. During that time, he helped strengthen collaboration between the Workforce Board and the CEO Board, ensuring alignment and shared leadership across the region. Even after his time as Chairman, Dr. Haberle has remained actively involved. He continues to lead the Workforce Centers Committee and has played an important role in the development of new workforce centers in Longview and Tyler. His service extends beyond East Texas. Dr. Haberle currently serves as Vice Chair of the Texas Association of Workforce Boards and represents the region at the national level through the National Association of Workforce Boards. Prior to his work in workforce development, Dr. Haberle served as Mayor of Jacksonville from 2005 to 2011. During that time, he also represented the city on the ETCOG General Board and contributed to regional efforts through the Texas Municipal League. Dr. Haberle’s leadership, service, and dedication have left a lasting impact on workforce development and regional collaboration in East Texas. ETCOG proudly recognizes Dr. Robert Haberle as a Regional Shining Star Award recipient and thanks him for his continued commitment to the communities he serves.
Since 2023, Shanae East faced significant challenges securing stable employment due to a legal barrier, all while balancing part-time work and receiving disability support. Despite these obstacles, she remained determined to build a better future for herself and her daughter. With support from Workforce Solutions East Texas, along with the WIOA and VRS programs, Shanae successfully completed her CCMA certification in 2024—gaining the skills needed to pursue a career in healthcare. When her work hours were reduced, Shanae filed for unemployment to help offset the loss of income. As part of her requirements, she attended the RESEA Orientation on October 7, 2025, where she received additional support and direction in her job search. During this time, she applied for a position with the University of Texas and, with continued encouragement and coaching from Workforce Solutions staff—including Cheryl—attended a local UT job fair. Her dedication paid off. Shanae interviewed for a CMA position and was offered a role with UT Vascular, successfully completing her RESEA reemployment goal on October 17, 2025. Reflecting on her experience, she shared, “The support given to me by the RESEA program helped me while I looked for work. I did the work, but they were there supporting me if I needed more help.” Throughout her journey, Shanae credits her Career Navigator, Cheryl Jackson, for providing consistent guidance, encouragement, and hands-on support. Shanae shared her appreciation for Cheryl’s role in helping her stay focused and confident, noting that her Navigator's assistance made a meaningful difference in navigating each step of the process. “The experience was humbling and gratifying. I experienced hope. I’m hopeful for the future. This has made me more ambitious and resilient in myself,” Shanae said. She now plans to continue her education to become a sonographer and encourages others facing similar challenges: “Don’t give up. Don’t underestimate your worth. Because someone will accept your worth.” Shanae’s journey highlights how Workforce Solutions East Texas programs, paired with dedicated support from staff like Cheryl Jackson, can turn barriers into opportunities and help individuals achieve meaningful, lasting career success.
