Can I get ESD extensions after my 6 remaining UI payments run out in June 2024?
I'm in a weird situation and really need some clarity. I applied for SSDI (disability) a few months back, but I've been collecting regular unemployment while waiting for my disability decision. Looking at my ESD account, I only have 6 UI payments left and my benefit year ends in June 2024. Is there any way to get an extension after my 6 payments run out? I don't think my disability case will be decided by then (we all know how slow that process is), and I'm getting really anxious about having no income. Would I qualify for any kind of extension or different program through ESD? Also, when should I contact ESD about this? Should I wait until I'm almost out of payments or should I call them now to plan ahead? I'm trying to avoid any gaps in payments if possible. Thanks for any advice!
14 comments
Romeo Quest
ur probably out of luck tbh. I went thru this last year and ESD told me once ur benefit year ends thats it unless theres some kind of emergency extension program going on (like during covid). regular ui only lasts about 26 weeks max and they dont usually do extensions anymore
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Lydia Santiago
•Ugh that's what I was afraid of. 😞 There's no special consideration for people who are in the disability application process?
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Val Rossi
Unfortunately, there are currently no extension programs available in Washington state. Regular UI benefits in Washington typically provide 26 weeks of benefits during your benefit year, and once those are exhausted, there are no additional weeks available. Regarding your disability application: ESD unemployment and SSDI are completely separate systems. To qualify for unemployment, you must be able and available for work and actively seeking employment. For SSDI, you're declaring you cannot work due to disability. This creates a potential conflict you should be aware of. My advice would be to: 1. Continue your job search requirements while on UI 2. Contact DSHS to see if you qualify for any temporary assistance programs while waiting for SSDI 3. Check with WorkSource about employment options compatible with your limitations
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Eve Freeman
•Just to clarify what @helpfulESD2022 said - claiming both unemployment and disability COULD be problematic because for UI you're saying you CAN work and for disability you're saying you CAN'T work. I've heard of people getting in trouble for this later. Did your doctor give you work restrictions that still allow SOME type of work? That's the key to making this work without problems.
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Clarissa Flair
this hapend to me!!! when my bennefits ran out i was FREAKING OUT but i found out you can at least apply for food stamps and possibly emergency assistance through DSHS while you wait for disability. its not much but its somthing! also check with local food banks in ur area
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Caden Turner
I think I can address your concerns about the unemployment benefits and SSDI application situation. First, to directly answer your question: No, there are no extensions currently available for regular UI claims once you exhaust your benefit balance or reach the end of your benefit year. The extended benefit programs that existed during COVID have all expired. Concerning the timing of collecting UI while applying for SSDI: This can create complications as others have mentioned. UI requires you to certify you're able and available for work, while SSDI requires proving you cannot work. However, there is a legal way this can work: 1. If you have medical restrictions but can still perform SOME types of work (just not your previous job) 2. If you're honestly looking for work within your medical restrictions 3. If you're transparent with both agencies about your situation I'd recommend speaking with a disability attorney about how your weekly UI certifications might impact your SSDI case. Some attorneys offer free consultations. As for other resources while you wait, definitely look into: - DSHS programs (food benefits, emergency assistance) - Housing assistance programs - Your local WorkSource office for job search help with accommodations You might want to call ESD now to discuss the end of your claim, but honestly, there's not much they can do beyond confirming your benefit end date.
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Lydia Santiago
•Thank you for such a detailed response! I am actually able to work with accommodations, which is why I've been filing for UI and doing job searches. I just can't do my old job anymore. I'll definitely contact a disability attorney though - didn't realize this could cause issues.
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McKenzie Shade
When I needed to reach ESD about a complicated situation like yours, I used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to an agent quickly. Saved me from weeks of trying to call on my own. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. It helped me clarify my specific situation with an actual ESD specialist who could look at my claim details, which was way better than guessing based on general rules. Since your situation involves both UI and disability, you probably need personalized advice.
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Clarissa Flair
•does this claimyr thing actully work? ive been trying to call esd for 3 WEEKS and cant get thru!!
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McKenzie Shade
•@desperateUIclaimer Yes, it worked for me. I got through in about 20 minutes after spending days trying on my own. Just followed the process on their site and it connected me directly to an ESD agent.
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Harmony Love
LOOOOL at ESD. They expect us to surrive on NOTHING when benefits run out. I was on UI last year and when it ended they just cut me off. No help, no extensions, just DONE. The whole system is designed to fail us. Good luck with disability too - I hear they deny everyone the first time. The government doesn't care if we end up homeless!!!
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Val Rossi
•While I understand your frustration, unemployment insurance is designed as a temporary bridge during job transitions, not as permanent income replacement. The standard 26-week benefit period in Washington is actually more generous than some other states. I'd recommend connecting with WorkSource for reemployment services.
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Rudy Cenizo
Have you talked to DSHS about HEN (Housing & Essential Needs)? It's specifically for people who are waiting for disability decisions and have very limited income. Won't replace your UI but it can help with rent, utilities, and some basic needs. I got on it after my UI ran out while waiting for my disability hearing. You apply through DSHS and it's administered through local community agencies. Just another option to look into.
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Lydia Santiago
•No, I hadn't heard of HEN! That sounds like exactly what I might need when my UI runs out. I'll definitely look into applying through DSHS. Thank you so much for this suggestion!
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