Can I get an extension on ESD unemployment benefits after regular UI runs out?

Extensions aren't automatically available anymore like they were during COVID. Regular UI benefits in Washington last for 26 weeks maximum. The only "extension" currently possible is if you qualify for Training Benefits (TB) while attending an approved training program. This would give you up to 26 additional weeks while you're in school/training. You need to apply for this specifically through your eServices account and get approval BEFORE your regular benefits run out.

u can only get more $ if ur in school or if theres a disaster declaration. my cousin tried 2 extend last yr and got denied bcz no extensions available. they told him 2 try 4 other benefits like food stamps instead

I went through this last summer! After my regular UI ran out, I tried calling ESD for WEEKS to ask about extensions but could never get through. Always got the "high call volume" message and disconnected. So frustrating!!!! Eventually I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to an actual ESD agent within 20 minutes. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. The agent confirmed what others said - no general extensions currently available, but explained my Training Benefits options in detail. Worth calling to discuss your specific situation!

THE SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO FAIL US!!! I was in your exact situation last year and ESD basically told me "too bad, so sad" when my benefits expired. They make the training benefits nearly IMPOSSIBLE to get approved for - they denied mine because the program wasn't on their "approved list" even though it was a legitimate certificate program at a community college!!! Then they expect you to survive on nothing while rich people get tax breaks. The whole unemployment system is rigged against working people!!!

To directly answer your question: No, traditional "extensions" don't exist anymore in Washington's unemployment system outside of federally declared emergencies. However, here are your options before your benefits expire: 1. Training Benefits Program: Extends benefits while in approved training 2. Commissioner Approved Training: Similar to TB but with different requirements 3. Shared Work: If you can find part-time employment 4. New claim: If you've worked enough hours during your current claim year The most important thing is to act NOW rather than waiting until your benefits run out. Training Benefits applications need to be submitted at least 30 days before your regular UI expires. You'll need to submit the Training Benefits application form and have your training program evaluated for eligibility.

When my unemployment was ending last year I was panicking too. My brother told me his friend got an extension but that turned out to be from 2021 during covid which doesn't help now lol. I ended up taking a part-time job at Starbucks while I kept looking for something in my field. You might qualify for partial unemployment if you work part-time but don't earn too much. Just sharing what worked for me while I was transitioning!

One more thing to consider - if you've worked ANY job (even part-time or temporary) during your current benefit year and earned enough hours, you might be eligible to file a new claim rather than seeking an extension. The threshold is 680 hours of work since your last valid claim. This creates a new benefit year rather than extending the current one. Worth checking your work history to see if this might apply to you.