Can I get an extension on my ESD unemployment benefits after they run out?
I'm starting to panic a bit as my regular UI claim is getting close to the end (about 3 weeks left). I've been job hunting like crazy but the manufacturing industry in my area is really slow right now. Is there any way to extend unemployment benefits in WA state once the regular benefits run out? I heard something about "EB" but I'm not sure if that's still available in 2025 or how to qualify. I'm 54 and this is the first time I've been on unemployment in over 12 years, so I'm not familiar with all the options. Anyone know what I should do before my benefits completely run out?
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Nick Kravitz
sorry but i dont think theres extensions anymore. they had that during covid but its gone now. once ur benefits r gone theyre gone. u should apply 4 food stamps maybe?
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Samantha Johnson
•Oh no, that's what I was afraid of. So there's nothing I can do? I've paid into the system for decades and now when I need a little more time I'm just out of luck?
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Hannah White
Extensions are based on the state's unemployment rate. Extended Benefits (EB) only kick in when unemployment reaches certain thresholds, which Washington hasn't hit recently. But you might have other options: 1. Make sure you're getting the FULL 26 weeks of regular UI first 2. Check if you qualify for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) if your job was affected by foreign competition 3. Training Benefits Program (TB) - gives you additional benefits while in approved training programs 4. WorkSource has resources for rapid reemployment Don't wait until your benefits run out to explore these options. Contact ESD directly to discuss your specific situation - they can tell you exactly what might be available for your circumstances.
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Samantha Johnson
•Thank you! I didn't know about the Training Benefits Program. That might actually work for me since I've been considering getting certified in CNC programming to expand my options. Do you know how I apply for that? Is it through the regular ESD website?
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Michael Green
Ugh, ESD is THE WORST about explaining these options! When my benefits were running out last year, I kept trying to call to ask about extensions and was on hold FOR HOURS only to get disconnected. Such a broken system!!!!!
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Mateo Silva
•I had the same experience trying to ask about Training Benefits! I eventually used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to an actual ESD agent. Saved me hours of frustration - their system calls ESD for you and then calls you when they get through to an agent. They have a video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 When I finally talked to someone, they helped me file for the Training Benefits Program, which gave me an additional 26 weeks while I did a medical coding certification program. Totally worth it to actually get accurate information directly from ESD.
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Victoria Jones
To expand on what others have said, here's the current situation with unemployment extensions in Washington for 2025: - Regular UI provides up to 26 weeks of benefits - Extended Benefits (EB) currently NOT available in Washington (requires high state unemployment rate) - Pandemic extensions (PEUC, PUA) ended years ago - Training Benefits Program is your best option if you qualify For the Training Benefits Program: 1. You must apply BEFORE your regular benefits run out 2. You need to be enrolled in an ESD-approved training program 3. The program generally must be for an "in-demand" occupation 4. If approved, you can receive up to 52 additional weeks of benefits while training Contact WorkSource immediately to discuss your training options and help with the application process. The approval process takes time, so don't wait.
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Cameron Black
•my neighbor did this training benefit thing for truck driving school! took him like a month to get approved but then he got benefits the whole time he was in school and now he's making like $29/hr driving
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Jessica Nguyen
when my unemployment ran out i just moved in with my parents lol
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Michael Green
•Not everyone has that option! Some of us are the parents that others move in with!! 🙄
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Samantha Johnson
Thanks everyone for the advice. I'm going to look into the Training Benefits Program right away. Sounds like I need to get the application started ASAP since I only have a few weeks left. I'll try to get through to ESD this week to discuss my options and also reach out to WorkSource. Really appreciate all the information!
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Hannah White
•Good plan! One more tip - when you talk to WorkSource, ask specifically about the Worker Retraining Program as well. It can sometimes cover tuition costs at community colleges while you receive Training Benefits. The combination can be very helpful for career transitions. Best of luck with everything!
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Nick Kravitz
wait whats this training thing evryone is talking about? i never heard of this when i was on uneployment last year nobody told me this was a option????
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Victoria Jones
•Unfortunately, ESD doesn't always proactively tell claimants about all available programs. The Training Benefits Program (TB) has been around for years but isn't widely advertised. You have to specifically ask about it or work with a knowledgeable WorkSource counselor. It's one of several programs that many people miss out on simply because they don't know to ask. Always worth asking about ALL possible options when working with any government agency.
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