Frequently Asked Questions
Services
Q: My company has never used Workforce Solutions. What do I need to use your services?
A: All we require is a Texas Tax number (TWC ID) or Federal Employer number (FEIN). You can get registered in the state of Texas by going to Texasworkforce.org or by calling the Texas Tax Office conveniently located in Weslaco, TX.
Q: What kind of services does the Office for Business Partnerships (OBP) provide that are available to me as an employer?
A: The OBP can assist with recruiting, screening and the referral of job seekers to open positions. We also provide consulting on topics, such as finding resources for funding and the education and training of new and existing employees.
Q: How much does Workforce Solutions charge for the services they can provide?
A: Because we are state and federally funded, there is no charge for the basic services we provide to Texas employers. The only requirement we have is that your business be registered with the federal and state government. Other services (facilities rental, laptop rentals, etc) that require a fee can be discussed by contacting OBP.
Q: What do I need to do to have a job fair or hiring event for the job openings at my company?
A: To schedule a job fair or hiring event, we suggest you contact the OBP. We have several facilities in the Hidalgo, Starr and Willacy counties where these events are held periodically.
Q: What are my responsibilities if my company decides to have a job fair or hiring event with Workforce Solutions?
A: Hiring events are another service that we can provide free of charge. Our only request is that your company call OBP and request the event with at least one week’s notice (to provide recruiters ample time to prepare our job seekers). We also require a hire list at the end of your company’s hiring period.
Q: How do I search for employees?
A: We provide an Internet based matching system, WorkInTexas.com , that provides a list of applicants who match your job posting requirements. Jobs can be posted online at WorkInTexas.com or by calling the Office for Business Partnerships at 956.661.5717. On the website, you can also browse the job seeker database for potential qualified applicants.
Other questions:
Q: I have a question regarding employment law, where can I find that information?
A: Visit the Texas Workforce Commission website for answers to questions regarding: legal issues, pay and policy issues, work separation, post-employment problems, and links to other employment law-related websites.
Q: Am I paying my employees a competitive wage for this geographical area?
A: You can call the Office for Business Partnerships (OBP) for professional opinions or check Tracer2 or Texas Industry Profiles for the most recent wage information.
Q: Do you take job postings from out-of-state employers?
A: Yes, we will take postings from out-of-state employers if the jobs are within our tri-county areas or if the employer is registered with a Texas Tax ID.
Q: Are there any programs available to my company that can reduce our taxes?
A: Yes. A number of programs are available that provide a tax break for hiring certain classes of applicants. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit is a federal tax credit used to reduce the federal tax liability of private-for-profit employers. Employers can hire from 8 different targeted groups. For more information about these tax credits, visit the WOTC website.
Q: Who can I contact for unemployment insurance information?
A: The Texas Workforce Commission handles all Unemployment Insurance claims through statewide Tele-Centers. You may contact them by phone at 800-939-6631 or visit their website at http://www.texasworkforce.org.
Q: I’m still confused. Is there anyone I can call to help me and my business find what we are looking for?
A: Of course! Business Service Consultants are available by phone 956.661.5717 or by email obp@wfsolutions.org Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to answer your questions and provide more information regarding various topics. If we can’t help you, we will direct you to someone who can!
