Is there a penalty period if I was fired can I collect unemployment if my employer protest my claim?

I don't know if Texas has a penalty period or not but if it does, it won't be based on the fact that you were fired; it will be based on WHY you were fired.

Likewise, whether or not you can collect unemployment at all (regardless of whether your employer contests or not) will depend on why you were fired and whether that reason constitutes a disqualifying reason or not.

Texas has a 7 day waiting period--not a penalty, but a hope that a job seeker can find something within a week or two, thus saving the State's money.

Thanks, Texas; good to know.

And, I can tell you from personal experience (:( ) that, after a certain period of time, (I think it was 4 weeks) if you are still unemployed, the 7-day waiting period is paid.