Benefits balance depleted but ESD claim open until Oct 2024 - Is unemployment extension possible?

Yes, what you're referring to is called Extended Benefits (EB) but unfortunately WA isn't currently paying those. When you exhaust your regular UI, that's typically all you're entitled to unless there's a special program active. Your claim can be open until Oct 2024, but that just means the time period you can collect - it doesn't guarantee funds for that entire duration. Regular UI claims in Washington provide up to 26 weeks of benefits. Once you've collected all 26 weeks worth, the funds are depleted even if your benefit year hasn't ended yet. Focus intensely on your job search and make sure you're using all WorkSource resources. They offer resume help, interview workshops, and sometimes have connections with employers that aren't advertising positions publicly.

LOL welcome to the wonderful world of ESD where nothing makes sense!!! I got the same shock when my benifits ran out but my claim was still 'active' for months. Its super misleading how they explain it. The 'active until' date is just the window you CAN collect, not a guarantee you'll GET money that whole time!!!!

Let me add some clarity here. Your regular unemployment insurance (UI) in Washington provides a maximum of 26 weeks of benefits within your benefit year (which ends in October 2024). The total amount you can receive is determined when your claim is established, based on your past earnings. When special economic conditions exist, Extended Benefits (EB) or other emergency programs might become available, but as of 2025, there are no active extension programs in Washington state. You should: 1. Keep filing your weekly claims even when your balance is zero (just in case an extension program becomes available) 2. Connect with WorkSource immediately - they can help with job search strategies 3. Consider checking if you qualify for other assistance programs like SNAP (food stamps) or housing assistance while you continue your job search Don't give up on your job search. Medical billing skills are transferable to many positions, so consider expanding the types of jobs you're applying for.

When I had this exact same problem trying to reach someone at ESD to discuss extensions was IMPOSSIBLE. I spent 4 days just trying to get through, kept getting disconnected after waiting for hours. Finally I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to an ESD agent in about 20 minutes! They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 The agent confirmed there weren't extensions available for me, but at least I got a clear answer and they pointed me toward some other resources I hadn't considered. Worth it just to get actual information instead of guessing.

To answer @profile6 - yes it actually works. I was skeptical too but was desperate after being on hold for literally 6+ hours across multiple days. They don't guarantee you'll get the answer you want, but at least you'll get to speak to an actual human at ESD.

I hate to be the bearer of bad news but this is how the system is designed. They WANT you to run out of benefits before finding a job so youll be forced to take ANYTHING even if its way below your previous wage. My benefits ran out in January and I had to take a job paying 40% less than my previous position because I was desperate. The system is working EXACTLY as designed. The benefit year length is intentionally misleading.

To answer your follow-up question - yes, you should definitely continue doing and documenting your job search activities even after benefits are exhausted. There are two important reasons: 1. If any extension programs get activated (which can happen with economic changes or new legislation), you'll need to show continuous job search compliance to qualify. 2. WorkSource programs and services often require proof of active job searching to access their more intensive assistance programs. You can also ask ESD about the Training Benefits program if you're considering retraining for a different field. That's separate from regular UI and might be an option depending on your situation.

im in teh exact opposite situation my claim is open til dec but i found a job last week!!! do i need to tell ESD or just stop filing weekly claims??? anybody know?

i went thru this last month. trust me, apply for everything - food stamps, energy assistance, rental assistance - BEFORE ur benefits run out completely. the waitlists for some of these programs can be weeks long and you dont want to be stuck with nothing while waiting. also check out your local food banks, they usually dont have income requirements and can help stretch your budget.

Some counties have emergency assistance programs, but they vary a lot. Call 211 - it's a resource hotline that can connect you with all available emergency services in your area. They can tell you exactly what's available and how to qualify for expedited help.