The Texas Workforce commission says any federal employees who are not getting paid do qualify for unemployment benefits. According to the TWC, even if you are on “furlough” from working for the federal government, you are considered “laid off” and qualify for at least partial unemployment payments. They say workers can apply now and even back-date the start of payments to when the shutdown began on October 1st. To do this, check out the link @ twc.texas.gov or call them to speak with a represent