DEO regular benefits exhausted - will I get the additional 13 weeks extension in 2025?

The PEUC program ended years ago - that was a pandemic thing. Now we're back to regular Florida unemployment which is called Reemployment Assistance (RA). The normal max is 12 weeks of benefits, but Florida does have a sliding scale that can go up to 19 weeks depending on the state unemployment rate. The problem is Florida's unemployment rate has been pretty low lately so you're probably just getting the standard 12 weeks. That's why you're seeing only enough funds for one more week.

u shud call DEO asap cuz they might be able 2 help u figure out if u qualify 4 any extentions. the # is impossible 2 get thru tho, i spent 3 days trying last month lol

To directly answer your question - no, there is no automatic 13-week extension in Florida anymore. As mentioned above, PEUC was a temporary program during COVID. Here's what you need to know: 1. Florida's regular benefits (RA) range from 12-19 weeks, depending on state unemployment rate 2. Currently in 2025, Florida's unemployment rate is keeping benefits at 12 weeks maximum 3. Once your balance shows only enough for one week, that's your final payment 4. After exhausting benefits, you'll need to wait until your benefit year ends before reapplying 5. Your benefit year is 12 months from when you first applied What you should do now is make sure you claim that final week correctly, continue your work search activities, and document everything. Also, check with CareerSource Florida for job placement assistance while you're waiting to start your new position.

Wait I'm confused... so if I'm getting unemployment right now and I have like 8 weeks left, am I going to suddenly get cut off? I thought I was guaranteed the full amount when I got approved??

Called DEO this morning (finally got through!) and confirmed what you all said. My regular benefits are ending after next week. The agent said I could potentially qualify for something called Extended Benefits if Florida's unemployment rate goes up significantly, but right now it's not available. Guess I need to dip into savings for a few weeks until this new job starts. Thanks everyone for your help!

My sister had the same thing happen last month... ran out of her regular weeks and thought there was some kind of extension. DEO told her nothing was available. She ended up doing food delivery for a few weeks to make ends meet until her teaching job started. Maybe try something like that?

Just to clarify for anyone else reading this thread - extensions like PEUC were specifically created by Congress for the pandemic. They weren't a regular feature of unemployment. Florida's system is back to its pre-pandemic rules now, which unfortunately means 12-19 weeks maximum based on state unemployment rate. If you're getting close to exhausting benefits, don't assume there will be an extension. Plan accordingly.

Hey James, I went through this exact same situation about 6 months ago. The hospitality industry has been brutal and Florida's unemployment system definitely doesn't give you much time to find something stable. Since you mentioned you have an interview lined up, you might want to reach out to CareerSource Florida in the meantime - they sometimes have emergency assistance programs or can connect you with temporary work that doesn't interfere with your job search requirements. Also, if you're really struggling financially, look into local food banks and utility assistance programs through 211. The gap between benefits ending and starting a new job is tough, but there are resources out there to help bridge it. Good luck with the new position!

I'm in a similar boat - just started my claim a few weeks ago and had no idea Florida only gives 12 weeks max. Coming from New York where you get 26 weeks, this is a huge shock. For anyone else new to Florida unemployment, make sure you understand the timeline from day one. I'm already looking at backup plans like part-time gig work because 12 weeks goes by fast when you're looking for something that actually pays a living wage. The CONNECT system should really make this clearer when you first apply instead of letting people assume they'll get extensions that don't exist anymore.

I'm actually going through something similar right now and this thread has been incredibly eye-opening. I had no idea that the 13-week extensions were just a COVID thing - I've been planning my budget assuming I'd get those extra weeks automatically. Reading through everyone's experiences here, it sounds like Florida really doesn't make it easy for people who are genuinely trying to get back on their feet. James, I hope that job interview works out for you! For anyone else in this situation, it might be worth checking if you qualify for any other assistance programs while you're between benefits and employment. I know some counties have emergency rental assistance or utility help that can buy you some time. It's frustrating that we have to piece this information together from forums instead of getting clear guidance from DEO, but at least we're helping each other figure it out.

This thread has been incredibly helpful! I'm new to Florida after moving here from California and just filed my first unemployment claim last week. Reading through everyone's experiences, I'm shocked that Florida only provides 12 weeks maximum - in California I would have gotten 26 weeks. It's really concerning that the CONNECT system doesn't make this clear upfront. James, I hope your new job comes through soon! For anyone else just starting their claims, it sounds like we need to treat these 12 weeks as emergency time to find work, not a safety net. I'm already looking into part-time work options just in case, and will definitely check out CareerSource Florida for additional resources. Thanks to everyone for sharing your real experiences - this kind of peer-to-peer information is so much more valuable than the confusing official documentation.