EDD benefits running out with $2,000 left - can I get an extension after my balance is gone?

Unfortunately, there's some confusion about how EDD benefits work. Your benefit YEAR lasts 12 months, but that's just the window during which you can collect your maximum benefit AMOUNT. The maximum benefit amount is typically 26 weeks worth of payments (about 6 months), not 12 months. Once your balance reaches zero, there are currently no federal or state extensions available like there were during the pandemic. The regular UI program has returned to pre-pandemic rules.

im in a similar boat, my balance is almost gone too. been applying 4 jobs like crazy but nothin yet. the economy sucks right now :/

The previous commenter is correct. The benefit year is a 12-month period, but your actual benefits typically last for 26 weeks maximum. There are no extensions currently available like we had during COVID (when they had PUA, PEUC, etc). Your best option is to intensify your job search now before your benefits run out. Also make sure you're claiming every week you're eligible and accurately reporting any part-time work so you don't leave any money on the table.

If you get part-time work, you can still receive partial unemployment benefits as long as you earn less than your weekly benefit amount. You just need to report your earnings when you certify, and EDD will deduct a portion of your earnings from your weekly benefit. Also, when your regular UI runs out, check if you qualify for any other programs like State Disability Insurance (SDI) or Paid Family Leave (PFL) if you have qualifying circumstances. They're different programs but might help in specific situations.

THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS RIGGED!! I lost my benefits after 26 weeks too and couldn't pay rent. They don't care what happens to us once the money runs out. During the pandemic they kept extending because it was political but now they just throw us away like garbage!!!

Have you tried calling EDD to ask about your options? I had questions about my claim ending and actually got through last week using Claimyr.com - it got me past all the busy signals and connected me to an agent in about 20 minutes. They have a video showing how it works at https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km. The agent I spoke with confirmed what others are saying here - once your balance is gone, there are no extensions right now unless new legislation passes.

Focus on your resume and networking right now while you still have some benefits left. I was in your exact position last year - had about $2300 left and was panicking. I ended up finding a job about 2 weeks before my benefits ran out. It wasn't my dream job, but it paid the bills until I found something better 3 months later. Don't wait until you're at zero to really push your job search into high gear!

does anyone know if they might add extensions again? i heard some rumor about it but cant find anything online

I appreciate all the responses! I called EDD using the service someone suggested above and actually got through to a rep. The agent confirmed everything you all said - my benefits are limited to the claim balance amount (26 weeks max), and there are no extensions currently available. She suggested I contact my local America's Job Center for help with job search resources and possibly training opportunities. Definitely not the news I was hoping for, but at least I know where I stand now and can plan accordingly.