Benefits may be available for spouses, dependents with employment affected by COVID-19 Published March 30, 2020 By Lori A. Bultman 502nd Air Base Wing Public Affairs JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO, Texas -- Texans whose employment has been affected by COVID-19 may be eligible for unemployment benefits, including spouses and dependents of service members. Currently, the Texas Workforce Commission is exercising its authority under the Governor’s Declaration of a Statewide Disaster to waive Unemployment Insurance work search requirements. “This measure supports the State’s efforts to address the impact the COVID-19 virus is having on the state’s economy and its workforce,” according to a TWC news release. “Previously, to be eligible for unemployment benefits, applicants were required to register for work search on WorkinTexas.com and conduct the minimum number of work search activities per week. TWC is temporarily waiving these requirements to ensure all Texans can have access to resources when in need.” Those seeking to receive unemployment benefits may apply online using Unemployment Benefits Services at https://twc.texas.gov/jobseekers/unemployment-benefits-services or by calling TWC’s Tele-Center at 800-939-6631 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Currently, the Tele-Center is receiving a large number of calls, so applicants are encouraged to apply for benefits online. Applicants are also encouraged to sign up for electronic correspondence for online access to their unemployment benefits correspondence. Electronic correspondence allows them to receive most, but not all, of their unemployment notices and forms electronically in a secure, online mailbox, according to the TWC. If any San Antonio area Department of Defense ID cardholders need assistance with any employment-related questions, they can contact one of the Joint Base San Antonio Military and Family Readiness Centers to arrange a telephone or virtual appointment at: JBSA-Randolph: 210-652-5321 or email Randolphmfrc@us.af.mil JBSA-Lackland: 210-671-3722 or email 802fss.fsfr@us.af.mil JBSA-Fort Sam Houston: 210-221-2705/2418 or email usaf.jbsa.502-abw.mbx.mfrc@mail.mil Job seekers affected by COVID-19 can find more information at https://twc.texas.gov/news/covid-19-resources-job-seekers.