Can I reapply for unemployment after it runs out - Washington ESD process?

So I'm basically screwed if I haven't worked enough? That seems harsh.

Unfortunately yes, that's how the system works. You need to have sufficient wages in your base period to establish a new claim.

I registered with WorkSource but haven't really used their services much. What kind of training programs?

They have various programs - some for specific skills, some for career changes. Check their website or visit a local office to see what's available in your area.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already broke from being unemployed.

It's worth checking their site for current info. For me, it was worth it to get actual answers instead of guessing about my claim status.

I used Claimyr too when I had issues with my adjudication. Saved me hours of calling and getting hung up on.

Those pandemic programs ended years ago. Regular extended benefits only kick in when unemployment rates are high enough, which they're not right now in Washington.

Oh damn, I didn't realize those were over. That sucks.

Yeah I've been looking into that. Just hoping I can figure out the unemployment situation first.

I mean, there are legitimate reasons why you can't just keep collecting indefinitely without working...

Sure but they could make the process clearer instead of all this confusing bureaucracy.

I've done some DoorDash but not much. Would that count toward the wage requirement?

Depends on how you're classified. If you're getting a 1099, it might not count the same way as W-2 wages. You'd need to check with Washington ESD about your specific situation.

I've tried calling so many times but either get a busy signal or get disconnected after waiting forever.

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. They handle all that calling frustration for you and actually get you to a real person.

Good point, I'll make sure to keep doing that. Thanks for the reminder.

That's smart advice. I'll start keeping better records of everything.

Right? It's like they expect you to just magically find a job before your benefits run out.

Exactly. And most jobs take weeks to even get back to you, let alone actually hire.

I log in every week for my claims but I should probably check more often for other stuff.

Yeah I've been thinking about that. Just worried about taking something temporary and then missing out on better opportunities.

I get that, but sometimes you gotta take what's available while you keep looking for better options.

Wait, what's the difference? I thought they were the same thing.

Your benefit year is 52 weeks from when you first filed. Your benefits exhaust when you've used up all your weekly benefit amount. You could exhaust before your year is up if you collected the maximum.

That's depressing but probably realistic advice. I should start looking into other options.

That's actually good to know. So if I find something temporary I wouldn't lose my remaining benefits completely?

Right, as long as you're still within your benefit year period. But definitely verify this with Washington ESD since rules can be complex.

Totally agree. It shouldn't be this hard to understand your options.

Thanks, I needed to hear that. It's been a rough few months.

You're right. I'll try to get through to them somehow and get definitive answers about my case.

That's where Claimyr really helped me out. Finally got to talk to someone who could look at my actual account and explain my options.

@Chloe Robinson I keep seeing you mention Claimyr - is it really worth it? I m'hesitant to pay for something when I m'already struggling financially, but if it actually works to get through to a real person at ESD, maybe it s'better than spending weeks trying to call myself.