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Can I get PEUC extension after regular DEO benefits end? (2025 rules)

Hi everyone! I'm getting close to the end of my regular unemployment benefits (think I have like 3 more weeks left). I heard somewhere that once my regular UI runs out, I might qualify for something called the 'CARES Act extra 13 weeks' if I'm still looking for work? Is that still a thing in 2025? My job search is going terrible - I've applied to like 20 places and only got one interview that went nowhere. Does anyone know if there's any kind of extension program available now? The DEO website is so confusing and when I try calling I just get disconnected. Thanks for any help!

Paolo Bianchi

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The CARES Act programs ended years ago. Those were temporary COVID programs (PUA, PEUC, etc). Florida now just has the regular 12 weeks of state unemployment (RA benefits). Sorry to break it to you, but there's no 13 week extension anymore.

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Oh no! That's really bad news. I was counting on having some extra time. Do they ever make exceptions? I've been applying everywhere but the job market is terrible right now.

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Yara Assad

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The previous comment is correct. The pandemic-related extensions ended years ago. Florida currently offers a maximum of 12 weeks of Regular Unemployment Assistance (RA). The number of weeks can increase to 23 weeks maximum if Florida's unemployment rate rises above 10.5%, but right now we're nowhere near that threshold. Once your regular benefits exhaust, there are no automatic extensions. You would need to establish a new claim with new qualifying wages if your benefit year has ended. I recommend connecting with your local CareerSource office for job placement assistance. They offer resume help, interview coaching, and sometimes have connections with employers that aren't advertising positions publicly.

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Thank you for explaining! I didn't realize those were just temporary COVID programs. I'll check out CareerSource - didn't think about that. Do you know if there's any other financial assistance I might qualify for when my unemployment runs out?

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Olivia Clark

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thats why florida sucks for unemployment... only 12 weeks and one of the lowest weekly amounts in the country. i ran out last month and now im just screwed. applied for food stamps at least. try that maybe?

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Florida actually recently increased the maximum weekly benefit amount to $425, but yeah still among the worst in the US. And the 12-week limit is brutal compared to most states that offer 26 weeks.

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If your benefit year is ending soon (it's a 12-month period from when you first applied), you might be able to requalify for a new claim IF you worked during that year and earned enough qualifying wages. Check your CONNECT account under "View and Maintain Account Information" and then "Monetary and Issue Summary" to see your benefit year end date. I'd also suggest calling DEO directly to ask about your specific situation. I know it's frustrating trying to get through, but I recently used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to a DEO agent in about 20 minutes after weeks of trying on my own. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/UzW_hbUy-ss?si=zORd51jeq1GX5Ldj. Really helped me sort out my claim issues.

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Thanks for the Claimyr suggestion! I'll check out that video. I did work a part-time job for about 2 months during my benefit year, but I'm not sure if that's enough to qualify for a new claim. I'll definitely look at that section in CONNECT.

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I tried Claimyr last week and it actually worked! Finally got answers about my claim after battling busy signals for days. Worth it just to get actual information instead of guessing.

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Amina Diallo

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YOU NEED TO APPLY FOR SNAP AND MEDICAID ASAP!!! Don't wait until your benefits run out. The application process takes time. Go to myflorida.com/accessflorida and start your application NOW. Also check with your county for emergency rental assistance programs - some still have funds available even though most COVID programs ended.

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Thank you! I didn't think about applying for those programs before my benefits run out. That's really smart. I'll do that today.

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Just wondering... have you tried looking outside your normal field? When my marketing job disappeared I ended up taking a customer service position that actually paid more than I expected. Wasn't my first choice but it's keeping me afloat while I look for something better. Sometimes you gotta take a detour.

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That's actually good advice. I've been pretty focused on staying in my field (hospitality management) but maybe I should broaden my search. Did you use any particular job sites that worked better than others?

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Yara Assad

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One important clarification regarding extensions and your benefit year: Even if you don't qualify for a new claim after your current benefits exhaust, make sure to continue checking your CONNECT account regularly. Florida occasionally implements special extension programs during economic downturns or after natural disasters. These wouldn't be announced directly to former claimants, so you need to stay informed. Also, regarding your job search: Make sure you're documenting ALL your work search activities in detail, even after benefits exhaust. If any future programs become available, having that documentation will be crucial for eligibility.

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That's really helpful! I'll definitely keep checking CONNECT and documenting everything. I've been taking screenshots of all my applications too just in case they need proof. Do you think it's worth continuing to claim weeks even after my benefits run out, just to maintain the record?

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GamerGirl99

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went through this last yr... try contacting 211 for emergency assistance programs in your area. also food banks have improved ALOT since covid - many now have fresh food not just canned stuff. churches sometimes help with utility bills too if ur desperate. good luck man the system is broken

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Thanks for all those suggestions. I never thought about calling 211, that's a good idea. And I appreciate the tip about food banks - I've never used one before but might need to soon.

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