Are there still UI extension programs in WA? Mine runs out next month

I was in your position last fall and unfortunately there are NO federal extensions available anymore like there were during Covid. The only "extension" program that might apply is Extended Benefits (EB), but that only activates when Washington's unemployment rate hits certain high thresholds - and we're not there right now. The EB program gives 13 additional weeks when activated, but it's currently OFF. You can check the ESD website for the current status, but I just checked last week and it's definitely not available.

Training Benefits (TB) is technically an extension program, but it's not automatic - you have to be enrolled in approved training/education to qualify. It can add up to 26 weeks of benefits if you're accepted into the program. But beware, the application process is complicated and you need to be in or starting an approved training program. Also needs to be a "high-demand field" according to ESD's definition. If you're in tech, retraining for cybersecurity might qualify.

their used to be a thing called PEUC but thats gone now. my cousin said somthing about disasters extensions but i think thats only for like floods and stuff

I just went thru this! The only options now are: 1. Extended Benefits (not active) 2. Training Benefits (if you qualify) 3. Shared Work (only if your employer participates) 4. TRA benefits (only for workers affected by foreign trade) I ended up taking a temp job that pays less than my old one just to have SOMETHING coming in. It sucks!!!!!

ESD is USELESS at explaining this stuff clearly!! I spent 2 weeks trying to get someone on the phone to answer this exact question and kept getting disconnected or 6+ hour wait times. The whole system is designed to make people give up.

One important thing no one has mentioned: if you're getting close to exhausting benefits, make sure you're still doing and documenting your job search activities EVERY WEEK (3 per week minimum). If extensions do become available, having gaps in your job search record could disqualify you. And even during the waiting period between regular UI exhaustion and any future extensions, you should still log your job searches on the ESD website.

has anyone heard if the legislature might bring back some kinda extension program??? my brother says they were talking about it but i cant find anything online about it

Since you mentioned you're in tech, have you checked out WorkSource's IT/tech retraining programs? Some of them qualify for Training Benefits and they can sometimes help place you in jobs after completion. They also have workshops specifically for tech workers transitioning to adjacent fields. It's worth connecting with a WorkSource specialist - they have more detailed information about potential benefit extensions and training programs than what's publicly available on the ESD website.

Something to consider: if your benefits will exhaust soon, you might qualify for other assistance programs while you continue your job search. Specifically: 1. SNAP benefits (food assistance) 2. Housing assistance through your county 3. Healthcare coverage through Apple Health 4. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (if you have kids) None of these are UI extensions, but they can help bridge the gap. The DSHS website has all the application info. Don't wait until your UI is completely exhausted to apply - the approval process can take weeks.