How to extend Florida DEO unemployment benefits after regular weeks run out?

Unfortunately Florida doesn't offer any benefit extensions right now. The only extensions were during COVID (PUA, PEUC, etc) but those all ended. When your regular weeks run out (currently max of 12 weeks in FL), that's it unless there's a new federal program. You might qualify for other assistance programs though like SNAP/food stamps.

The previous commenter is correct - Florida does NOT currently have any unemployment extensions available. The number of available weeks is tied to the state unemployment rate (it ranges from 12-23 weeks). Since Florida's unemployment rate has been below 5%, we're stuck at the minimum 12 weeks of benefits. Your options now are: 1. Continue job searching (use CareerSource Florida for help) 2. Apply for other assistance (SNAP, TANF, etc) 3. If you've worked in multiple states in your base period, check if you qualify for a claim in another state 4. If you have a partial disability that limits your work options, check if you qualify for Vocational Rehabilitation services Sorry to be the bearer of bad news - the FL system is one of the least generous in the country.

Yep, Florida benefit system sucks!! I went thru the same thing last November. My benefits ran out and that was it. Was told by someone at CareerSource that FL has the WORST unemployment in the country. They pay the least amount for the shortest time. Thanks Governor!!

One thing nobody mentioned - if you're having trouble getting through to someone at DEO to ask about potential options, I had good luck using Claimyr to connect with an agent (claimyr.com). They have a system that waits on hold for you and then calls when an agent is available. Saved me from spending literally days trying to get through. There's a demo video here: https://youtu.be/UzW_hbUy-ss?si=zORd51jeq1GX5Ldj That might help if you need to discuss your specific situation with DEO and see if there are ANY options they can suggest. When I called, they directed me to some retraining programs that had stipends attached.

hey try 2-1-1 they might be able 2 help with rent/utilities while ur looking for work. also food banks helped me when my benefits ran out.

Did you check if you qualify for PUA? That's what I got when my regular benefits expired.

I was in your situation in January. What I did was sign up for a vocational training program through CareerSource that qualified me for a small stipend while I learned new skills. It wasn't much money, but it helped bridge the gap and now I'm working in a completely different industry with better stability. Worth checking if they have any training programs related to construction or that could use your transferable skills. The key is that some of these programs are considered "approved training" which can sometimes extend benefit eligibility (but this varies by program and situation). I'd recommend making an in-person appointment at your local CareerSource office rather than just looking at their website. The staff there were much more helpful face-to-face and knew about programs that weren't obvious online.