Can you extend unemployment Washington ESD - regular UI benefits running out next month

That's what I was afraid of. So there's literally nothing after the 26 weeks?

Not unless Congress passes new legislation. The extended benefits trigger is based on unemployment rates and Washington doesn't qualify currently.

I hadn't thought about that. Do you know if those programs provide any financial assistance while you're in training?

Some do, but you'd need to contact WorkSource directly to see what's available for your situation and field.

Did they charge you for that service? I'm already broke and can't afford to pay for help.

It's not free but it was worth it to actually get answers instead of trying to call Washington ESD for weeks. At least I knew exactly where I stood.

I've heard good things about Claimyr too. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person to understand your situation.

Good point about keeping up with the weekly claims. I've been doing 3 job search activities per week like they require.

Actually I think it's 2 activities per week now, not 3. Unless that changed again?

It's 3 activities per week for most people, but can vary based on your specific situation. Best to check your WorkSource account to be sure.

Tell me about it. I've applied to probably 200+ jobs and gotten maybe 5 interviews.

its insane how many hoops they make you jump through just to get poverty-level benefits and then cut you off when you still cant find work

I'm already on SNAP but I should probably look into other programs. Do you know if there's a central place to apply for everything?

Try the Washington Connection website - it's the state's benefits portal where you can apply for multiple programs at once.

I've been applying to everything, trust me. Even fast food places are being super picky now.

Same experience here. Applied to retail, food service, you name it. Everyone wants 'experience' even for entry level jobs.

That's actually a really good idea. I wonder if there are any programs related to warehouse/logistics since that's my background.

Most community colleges have workforce development programs specifically designed for people in your situation. Worth checking out.

Did they give you any options for extending or did they just confirm it was ending?

They confirmed there were no extensions available but helped me understand some other programs I might qualify for. At least I wasn't left guessing.

I mean, unemployment insurance was never meant to be permanent. It's supposed to be a temporary safety net.

yeah but 26 weeks isnt realistic anymore when it takes months to find decent work

I've been to a few workshops but they're pretty basic. Maybe I should try the one-on-one counseling.

The individual counseling is much more helpful than the group stuff. They can really tailor advice to your specific situation.

I'm in Pierce County but I'd assume they have similar programs. I should look into what's available locally.

Pierce County should have similar resources. Check their website or call 211 for information about local assistance.

Start looking at backup plans now. I wish I had started thinking about this sooner.

Same boat here. The job market is rough right now so 26 weeks might not be enough.

I've signed up with a couple but they haven't had much available in my area. Maybe I should try more of them.

It's worth registering with as many as you can. Different agencies have different clients and opportunities.

That's pretty much what I figured. Thanks for the reality check, even though it's not what I wanted to hear.

I know it's not ideal but at least you have 5 weeks to prepare. Use that time wisely.

Good point. I might not know about all the programs available. Worth asking about.

Exactly. Sometimes there are programs you don't even know exist until you ask the right questions.