Can I file an extension for unemployment benefits in Washington ESD?

That's what I was afraid of. So after 26 weeks, I'm just completely cut off? That seems really harsh considering how tough the job market still is.

Yeah it sucks but that's how it works now. I hit my 26 weeks last year and had to figure out other options like food stamps and temp work.

I've been keeping track and I definitely only have about 4 weeks left. I've been applying to way more than 3 jobs per week, probably closer to 8-10. Still nothing though.

That's really frustrating. Are you applying through WorkSourceWA? Sometimes they have additional resources or training programs that might help.

Never heard of that service before. Did they actually help you get more benefits or just explain that there weren't any extensions?

They helped me understand all my options. Turns out I qualified for a small trade adjustment program I didn't know about, plus the agent gave me info about state job training programs that provide stipends.

That sounds promising. I'll definitely check that out because I can never get through to anyone at Washington ESD on my own.

I don't have kids but I'll look into the retraining programs. Do you know if those programs have income requirements?

Most do have income limits but they're usually pretty reasonable. Since you're on unemployment, you'd probably qualify. The hard part is getting accurate info about what's available - that's why calling Washington ESD directly is so important.

That's exactly why I ended up using Claimyr. I was spending hours every day trying to call and never getting through. It was worth it just to get some answers and peace of mind.

same here, the phone system is absolutely broken. You either get busy signal or sit on hold for 2+ hours just to get disconnected

I've thought about it but I'm worried about messing up my claim. How do you report partial work income to Washington ESD?

You report it on your weekly claim. Washington ESD will reduce your benefits based on what you earn, but you can still get partial payments as long as you're under full-time hours.

Just make sure you report everything accurately. I did DoorDash for a while and reported all my earnings. Never had any issues.

Good thinking. I should probably start looking into those resources now before I actually run out of benefits.

211 is a good resource for finding local assistance programs. Just dial 2-1-1 and they can connect you with services in your area.

Yeah I'm sure. I started my claim in June and I can see exactly how many weeks I have left in my account. Definitely running out soon.

Okay just checking. I've seen people panic thinking they were out of benefits when they actually had more time left.

Thanks for the encouragement. It's really hard to stay positive when the money is about to run out. What field are you in if you don't mind me asking?

I'm in marketing. Had to take something that pays less than my old job but at least it's something. Sometimes you have to take a step back to move forward.

I've contacted a few but haven't heard much back. Maybe I need to be more aggressive about following up.

Yeah definitely follow up. Also register with multiple agencies, not just one or two. Cast a wide net.

I haven't looked into that. How would I find out if I qualify for something like that?

You'd need to speak with someone at Washington ESD who knows the specific programs. That's where a service like Claimyr might help since they can get you to the right person.

That's actually similar to what happened with me. The agent I spoke to through Claimyr knew about programs I had never heard of.

You're right, I've been mostly doing online applications. I should probably be more proactive about networking.

It feels awkward at first but most people are willing to help if you approach it right. Don't ask for a job, ask for advice or information.

Good point. I'll keep filing until Washington ESD tells me to stop.

Absolutely. And keep documenting your job search activities. You never know if they'll audit your claim later.

That's smart advice. I'll start looking into food assistance and other programs this week.

Definitely. And if you qualify for SNAP benefits, you might also qualify for reduced-cost internet and phone service.

I hadn't thought of the library. That's a great suggestion, especially for the free resources.

Libraries are really underused for this stuff. Mine even has a job board with local openings that aren't posted online anywhere else.

I've been pretty focused on finding something at my previous salary level, but you might be right that I need to be more flexible.

It sucks but sometimes that's reality. Better to have some income than none, especially if benefits are running out.

This is exactly what I had to do. It was hard to swallow but I'm glad I took something rather than holding out.

So if I filed in June, I can't file a new claim until next June even if I find work and then lose it again?

Exactly. Unless you earn enough wages in new employment to qualify for a new claim, but that's pretty difficult to do in just a few months.

This is why it's so important to understand all your options before your benefits run out completely.

Thank you for mentioning that. It has been really stressful and I probably should talk to someone about it.

A lot of community health centers offer sliding scale mental health services. It's worth looking into.

This thread has been really helpful. I feel like I have a much better idea of what I need to do now. Thank you everyone for the advice and support.

Seriously consider using Claimyr to get through to Washington ESD if you can't reach them on your own. Having that conversation with an actual agent made all the difference for me.

Good luck! Keep us posted on how things work out. And remember to keep filing those weekly claims and documenting your job search until you're officially told to stop.