Can I get my unemployment benefits extended in Washington ESD?

That's what I was afraid of. I haven't worked enough hours to qualify for a new claim. Are there any state programs that might help?

Washington state doesn't have its own extension program currently. Your best bet is to check if you qualify for other assistance programs through DSHS.

I only worked part-time for about 3 months during my benefit year, so I don't think I'll qualify. This is really stressful.

Same situation here. It's so frustrating that there's no safety net when regular benefits run out.

How much does that service cost? I'm already struggling financially.

I thought it was worth it just to get answers instead of spending weeks trying to call. The uncertainty was killing me.

Never heard of Claimyr before but anything that helps get through to Washington ESD sounds useful. The phone system is a nightmare.

Those were emergency pandemic programs like PEUC and Extended Benefits. They've all ended now. Regular UI is back to the standard 26 weeks maximum in Washington.

that sucks. so we're just supposed to figure it out on our own after 6 months?

WorkSource has training programs that might provide some financial assistance while you learn new skills. Worth checking out if you qualify.

Thanks, I'll look into that. At this point I'm willing to try anything.

Let me know what you find out about WorkSource. I might need to explore that option too.

I hear you. It's especially hard in certain industries that are still recovering.

At least during the pandemic there were options. Now it feels like we're on our own.

What unemployment rate would trigger Extended Benefits? Is that something that could happen soon?

The rate would need to be significantly higher than current levels. It's not likely to trigger anytime soon based on current economic conditions.

Good point. I should double-check my dates. My benefit year started March 2024, so it should end March 2025 if I understand correctly.

Right, but you might exhaust your benefit amount before the year ends. Check both your remaining balance and your benefit year end date.

What kind of community resources did you find? I might need to start looking into that.

Food banks, utility assistance programs, and some local job training grants. Each county has different programs available.

I've been trying to call but can never get through. The lines are always busy.

That's exactly why I used Claimyr. Saved me so much time and frustration trying to get through on my own.

I've been applying for part-time positions too. How does partial unemployment work exactly?

You can work up to a certain amount and still receive partial benefits. The exact calculation depends on your weekly benefit amount.

Thanks for the encouragement. I'm definitely not giving up, just trying to plan for all scenarios.

I've considered it. Do I need to report gig work income to Washington ESD if I'm still receiving benefits?

Yes, you must report ALL income when filing your weekly claims, including gig work and freelance income.

You're right. I should start making calls and applications now rather than waiting.

Exactly. Even if extensions aren't available, there might be other programs or opportunities you haven't considered yet.

That sounds promising. Do you know what kind of training programs qualify?

I think it depends on demand in your area. They focus on in-demand occupations like healthcare, IT, and skilled trades.

Good advice. I'll make sure to document any conversations I have with them.

When I used Claimyr to get through, I took notes during the call and followed up with messages through the ESD website to have everything documented.

That's a good point. I've been keeping my job search log but I should make sure I'm meeting all the requirements.

Yes, you never know when you might need to file another claim in the future, so staying compliant is important.

Yeah, it's not the news I wanted to hear but it's better to know the reality and plan accordingly.

Hang in there everyone. We'll get through this somehow.

Can you explain the difference? I want to make sure I understand my situation correctly.

Benefit year ending means you've reached the anniversary of when you filed. Exhausting benefits means you've used up all your available weeks or dollar amount. Different rules apply depending on which situation you're in.

Exactly. And if your benefit year ends but you haven't exhausted your benefits, you typically need to file a new claim rather than continuing the old one.