If you are an independent contractor, a gig worker, or are self-employed in Texas, and you are out of work due to COVID-19, you may qualify for unemployment benefits through Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). If you need help applying, consult the Unemployment Application Guide.
Can I collect unemployment from another country?
If you are currently making your residence in the United States, you may be able to collect unemployment benefits while out of the country. Typically you are also allowed to collect benefits if you are in Puerto Rico or Canada.
Do you pay unemployment if you are an independent contractor in Texas?
On this page: Businesses with employees are subject to the Texas Unemployment Compensation Act (TUCA) and are liable to pay unemployment taxes. If workers are independent contractors, the employer is not liable to pay unemployment taxes on those individuals.
Who is eligible for unemployment benefits in Texas?
In Texas — as in every other state — employees who are temporarily out of work through no fault of their own may qualify to collect unemployment benefits. The eligibility rules, prior earnings requirements, benefit amounts, and other details vary from state to state, however.
How to find out if a subcontractor is eligible for unemployment?
Check with your payroll department to find out if it paid state unemployment or federal unemployment insurance taxes on your behalf. If so, you may qualify for unemployment benefits, if your subcontracting business failed or closed and you no longer have work. You still need to meet the state’s qualifications for benefits.
Do you qualify for unemployment if you work outside the US?
However, someone who works outside the United States may not qualify for any benefits. To find out, a person will need to look up where his employer is based and what the state laws are there. The employer’s website should say which state in which the company is based.
