How Long Do I Have to Work For to Collect Unemployment in Texas?

To qualify for UI in Texas, you must have worked during a minimum of two quarters in the base period. Your total base period earnings must be at least 37 times the weekly benefit amount (WBA).

The WBA is computed by multiplying your HQW by 1/25. The minimum WBA is $63, making the minimum HQW $1,575. The minimum total base period earnings is $2,331.

Texas offers an extended base period for those who file an UI claim within 24 months of being injured/disabled. For those who qualify, the base period is extended to the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters preceding the injury/disability/illness.

In Texas an employer or employing unit is covered under unemployment insurance if it paid at least $1,500 in wages during any calendar quarter in the current or previous calendar year. Further, an employer/employing unit is also covered under unemployment insurance if it paid wages to at least one employee and employed said worker at least one day per week during the 20 weeks of the current or previous calendar year.