DEO benefits exhausted but still unemployed - what options do I have now?

Update: I called DEO using that Claimyr service and finally got through. Turns out I did have an unresolved adjudication issue from my former employer contesting my claim, but the agent was able to see that it was actually decided in my favor weeks ago but never processed properly! They're releasing the hold and I'm actually getting 2 more weeks of benefits than I thought. Still nowhere near enough long-term but gives me a little more time. Going to apply for SNAP tomorrow and visit CareerSource. Thanks everyone for the advice - this forum has been more helpful than anything the DEO provided.

glad u got those extra weeks!! its still ridiculous that FL only gives 12 weeks when most states give 26!! and our max benefit is a joke too. good luck with everything. this economy is brutal right now despite what the news says

That's great news about the extra weeks! One more suggestion - when you visit CareerSource, ask specifically about their WIOA program (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act). If you qualify, they can sometimes pay for job training or certification programs that can help you get into a better-paying field. They don't advertise this program much, but it's available in most counties and can be a game-changer if you're trying to switch industries.

unfortunately FL only gives u 12 weeks max now... no more extensions like during covid. once ur balance hits 0 thats it. they dont care what happens to u after that 😡 the system is RIGGED against workers in this state!!

Seriously?? That's it?? I thought there might be some kind of safety net after regular benefits... this is terrifying.

After your regular RA benefits are exhausted, you may qualify for other assistance programs, though not through DEO. Look into applying for SNAP benefits (food assistance), TANF (temporary cash assistance for families), or Medicaid. You should apply through the ACCESS Florida portal at myflorida.com/accessflorida before your unemployment runs out completely.\n\nAlso, schedule an appointment with your local CareerSource office. They have resources beyond just job listings - sometimes they have emergency assistance funds or can connect you with local charities and programs that help with rent and utilities.\n\nMake sure you continue documenting all your job search efforts even after benefits end, as this will be important for any assistance programs you apply for.

CareerSource was helpful for me too. They also offer free job training programs if you need to learn new skills to get hired. I did their Microsoft certification program after my benefits ran out.

I went through this last month. Make sure to file for your final week of benefits even if it's a partial payment. Sometimes people forget to claim that last week thinking there's nothing left.\n\nAlso, call DEO before your benefits end to make sure there are no pending adjudication issues that might have prevented you from getting your full entitlement. I discovered they had an unresolved issue on my account that was holding back some funds.\n\nI spent 3 days trying to reach someone at DEO about this. Finally used Claimyr.com to get through to an agent in about 20 minutes. They have a service that gets you past the busy signals and hold times. You can see how it works here: https://youtu.be/UzW_hbUy-ss?si=zORd51jeq1GX5Ldj. The agent found $840 in my account that was being held due to an employer dispute that had actually been resolved but never updated in the system.

Wait, seriously? I actually have had a pending adjudication issue for the past 4 weeks that I haven't been able to get anyone to explain to me! I'll check out that service because I've called like 50 times and always get disconnected.

I had a similar experience with finding extra funds. Definitely worth checking if there's anything still pending in your account before it closes out.

The DEO system is total garbage. I exhausted benefits in January and got NOTHING after that. No help, no guidance, just 'sorry bout your luck.' And they make it IMPOSSIBLE to talk to a human. I've been working Doordash and selling stuff on eBay just to keep the lights on. Florida has the lowest benefits and shortest period of any state. Welcome to Ron DeSantis' Florida where they claim 'low unemployment' because they force people to take any job no matter how bad it pays.

this!!! 💯 I had to take a job making half what I used to because benefits ran out. system is designed to push ppl into poverty wages

I recommend checking with your county's Community Action Agency as well. Many have emergency rent and utility assistance programs that can provide 1-3 months of help when you're in transition between benefits ending and finding employment. \n\nAlso important - if you have any skills that could translate to gig work or freelancing, register on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr immediately. It takes time to build a profile, but even picking up small jobs can help bridge the gap.\n\nThe key is to apply for ALL possible assistance programs simultaneously, as some have waiting periods of 30-45 days for processing. Don't wait until you're completely out of unemployment benefits to start these applications.

Thank you so much for this advice. I hadn't thought about the Community Action Agency option. Going to look that up right now and start applications for everything I can find.