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If you’re receiving unemployment benefits in Texas, you may be required to complete a certain number of work search activities each week to remain eligible.

While Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area (WSRCA) doesn’t oversee unemployment claims or determine benefit eligibility, we’re happy to help connect job seekers with workforce resources, guidance, and support services available through our partners at the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC).

Here’s an updated overview of work search activities recognized by TWC.

Register on WorkInTexas.com

One of the most important first steps is registering on WorkInTexas.com, the state’s official job matching website.

WorkInTexas.com allows you to:

• Search for jobs across Texas
• Create and upload résumés
• Receive job alerts through the Virtual Recruiter tool
• Connect with employers hiring in your area

For registration help, visit WorkInTexas.com or connect with your local Workforce Solutions office for assistance.

Apply for Jobs and Follow Up With Employers

Applying for jobs counts as a work search activity when you:

• Submit online applications
• Apply in person
• Send résumés by email or mail
• Participate in interviews
• Follow up with employers about job opportunities

Applications should focus on positions that reasonably match your skills, work history, and experience.

Use Workforce Services and Career Resources

Participating in workforce services may also count toward your work search requirements.

Examples include:

• Job search assistance
• Résumé preparation workshops
• Interview preparation
• Skills assessments
• Career guidance
• Labor market information sessions
• Reemployment planning
• Training opportunities

WSRCA can help connect job seekers with many of these free resources and services.

Attend Job Fairs and Networking Events

Employment-related events may qualify as acceptable work search activities.

Examples include:

• Job fairs
• Hiring events
• Networking events
• Career workshops
• Job clubs

These events can help job seekers build connections and learn about available opportunities in their local communities.

Create or Update Your Résumé

Building or improving your résumé may count as a work search activity.

This can include:

• Creating a new résumé
• Updating an existing résumé
• Uploading résumés to job boards
• Tailoring résumés for specific positions

A strong résumé helps improve visibility with employers and hiring platforms.

Register With Other Employment Services

Additional acceptable work search activities may include registering with:

• Staffing agencies
• Private employment agencies
• College or university placement offices
• Online job matching platforms

These services can help expand your job search and connect you with more employment opportunities.

Search for Jobs Online

Searching for jobs through recognized employment websites also counts toward your work search efforts.

Examples include:

• WorkInTexas.com
• The U.S. National Labor Exchange
• Rural Capital Headlight
• Other reputable job search websites

Tools like Virtual Recruiter alerts can also help notify you about new jobs matching your skills and interests.

Create a Reemployment Plan

Developing a reemployment plan may also qualify as a work search activity.

A reemployment plan can include:

• Career goals
• Weekly application targets
• Training opportunities
• Skills development
• Networking activities
• Industry research

Having a structured plan can help keep your job search organized and focused.

Additional Services for Select Claimants

Some claimants may participate in additional reemployment programs through the Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment (RESEA) program.

Eligible individuals may receive:

• Career coaching
• Specialized workshops
• Additional workforce guidance and support

Program participation requirements vary based on eligibility and claim status.

Keep Accurate Work Search Records

TWC may request documentation of your work search activities.

Be sure to keep records that include:

• Dates of activities
• Employers contacted
• Positions applied for
• Workshop attendance
• Résumé submissions
• Networking events attended

Keeping organized records can help avoid delays or issues with your claim.

WSRCA Can Help Connect You to Resources

Navigating unemployment requirements and restarting a job search can feel overwhelming, especially during periods of career transition.

While WSRCA doesn’t manage unemployment benefits or determine eligibility decisions, our team can help connect you with workforce resources, job search support, training opportunities, and guidance available through TWC and local workforce partners.

If you need help taking your next step, your local Workforce Solutions office is here to support your workforce journey.

For the latest work search requirement guidelines and approved activities, visit TWC's website: https://www.twc.texas.gov/programs/unemployment-benefits/work-search-requirements