Can I get an extension after my 26 weeks of ESD benefits run out? Single mom transitioning to insurance/real estate jobs

Sorry to hear ur stressed. Regular UI benefits r limited to 26 weeks max in WA state. There's no automatic extension right now since we're not in a high unemployment period. U might want to check if u qualify for Training Benefits Program but I think u had to apply for that before ur claim started. Maybe check with WorkSource about rapid reemployment programs?

The Training Benefits Program would have been ideal for your situation, but unfortunately it requires approval before you begin the training program. However, you do have a few options to consider: 1. WorkSource offers job search assistance and can sometimes connect you with temporary work while you complete your licensing requirements. 2. Check if you qualify for other assistance programs like TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) or SNAP benefits to help with essentials. 3. Some real estate and insurance firms offer stipends or advances to new agents in training - have you asked the companies that made you offers if they have any financial bridge programs? 4. If you've worked in multiple states in the past 18 months, you might be eligible to file an interstate claim. I'd recommend calling ESD directly to explain your situation and see if there are any extensions available in your specific case. Sometimes there are special circumstances they can consider.

My sister had almost EXACT same situation last year!!! She was getting into real estate too and ran out of benefits. She ended up doing Doordash and Instacart while studying for her license. Not ideal but it helped pay bills til she got her first commission check. Just sharing in case it helps. Good luck mama!!!

I'm in a similar boat right now, single parent and everything. The ESD system is completely BROKEN. They expect us to magically find jobs that pay enough to support our families with ZERO support once benefits run out. I applied for extended benefits last month and got denied for no reason. Called 23 TIMES and never got through. The whole system is designed to fail us!!! Let me know if you find anything that works.

Have you tried calling ESD to ask about your options? Sometimes they have special programs or can guide you to other resources based on your specific situation. I know calling ESD can be a nightmare though - I struggled for weeks trying to get through when I had an issue with my claim last year. I finally used a service called Claimyr that got me connected to an ESD agent within about 30 minutes after I'd spent days trying on my own. They have a video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 Their website is claimyr.com - might be worth checking out if you're desperate to talk to someone at ESD about potential extensions or programs. At least then you'd know for sure what options you have.

You should definitely contact DSHS immediately!!! They can help with emergency assistance, food benefits, childcare subsidies, etc while you're transitioning careers. As a single mom you'll probably qualify for quite a bit of help. Also check with your local community action agency - they sometimes have emergency rent assistance. Don't wait until your benefits actually run out to apply!

I work with career transitions, and I'd recommend reaching out to the companies that offered you positions in insurance and real estate. Many agencies understand the licensing process takes time and might have programs to support new agents during this phase. Some offer advances against future commissions or part-time administrative work while you study. Additionally, contact the WorkSource office nearest you. They offer: 1. Rapid Response services for dislocated workers 2. Possible training assistance funds 3. Connections to community resources 4. Workshops on interviewing and resume building You might also qualify for childcare assistance through Working Connections while you're job searching and training. Don't give up - there are resources available to bridge this gap!

have u looked into amazon flex? my cousin does that and says its decent pay while u figure things out. just need a car

I'm glad to see you're finding some paths forward! For anyone else reading this thread in a similar situation, here's a quick summary of potential resources when your UI benefits are ending: 1. WorkSource Washington - job search assistance, training programs, rapid reemployment services 2. DSHS - emergency assistance, food benefits (SNAP), TANF, childcare subsidies 3. Community Action Agencies - emergency rent and utility assistance 4. Gig work options - delivery services, Amazon Flex, etc. for flexible income 5. Training Benefits Program - must apply before beginning training 6. Ask potential employers about stipends or advances during licensing/training periods Also, always verify your UI benefit end date in your ESD account. Sometimes the calculated end date is different from what you might expect, and occasionally people have remaining benefits they didn't realize were available.