Texas Layoff Resources
If you have been laid off in Texas, start here for unemployment, health coverage, basic-needs assistance, workforce services, and help with possible workplace problems.
Eligibility varies by program, so use the official links below for current rules and applications.
Unemployment Benefits and Filing
Texas Unemployment Benefits may provide temporary income if you lost work through no fault of your own. Request payment as instructed, report all work and earnings, and register for work search on WorkInTexas.com within three business days if required. TWC assigns a minimum number of weekly work-search activities based on your county and tells you the number in your Work Search Notification; keep a verifiable log.
- Texas unemployment information
- File or manage an unemployment claim
- Texas work-search requirements
- Unemployment assistance: 800-939-6631
Layoff-Notice Protections
Texas does not have a separate state mini-WARN law that expands federal thresholds. Federal WARN may require 60 days’ advance notice for certain large layoffs or plant closings. Texas Rapid Response can provide reemployment and training help.
Health-Insurance Coverage
Losing job-based insurance usually creates a special enrollment opportunity. Compare HealthCare.gov coverage, Texas Medicaid, and COBRA before choosing.
- HealthCare.gov
- Texas Medicaid
- Apply for public benefits and health coverage
- COBRA continuation coverage
Food, Cash, Childcare, Utility, and Local Assistance
Your Texas Benefits is the main starting point for SNAP, Medicaid, cash assistance, and other benefits. Child Care Services and the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program have additional rules and local administration. For local food, housing, utility, transportation, and emergency help, use 211 Texas.
- Your Texas Benefits
- Texas Child Care Services
- Texas Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program
- 211 Texas
- Dial 211
- Texas housing resources
Workforce and Reemployment Services
Workforce Solutions offices provide no-cost employment and training services, including résumé help, career guidance, veteran services, computer access, and information about training assistance.
Workplace Problems and Legal Help
The Texas Workforce Commission handles wage claims under the Texas Payday Law. A discharged employee generally must receive final wages within six calendar days, and a wage claim generally must be filed within 180 days after the wages became due. Employment-discrimination complaints under Texas law generally must be filed within 180 days; federal deadlines can differ.
- File a Texas wage complaint
- Texas wage-and-hour information
- Texas Workforce Commission Civil Rights Division
- File an EEOC charge
Civil legal help
Last Reviewed: August 2026