Can you extend unemployment benefits in Washington ESD - running out soon

That's what I was afraid of. So basically I'm just out of luck after 26 weeks?

Pretty much, unless you qualify for a new claim if you worked enough after your original claim started

I did some gig work but probably didn't make that much. How do I check if I qualify?

You can try calling Washington ESD to check your wage records, but good luck getting through. The phone lines are always busy.

I had this same issue last month trying to reach someone at Washington ESD about my wage records. Spent hours calling and either got busy signals or got hung up on after waiting forever. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Saved me so much frustration!

Extended Benefits (EB) only kicks in when unemployment rates hit certain triggers. Washington hasn't had EB activated in years because our unemployment rate hasn't been high enough.

oh that makes sense, I was getting confused

I feel you. Have you been keeping track of all your job search activities? Make sure you're meeting the 3 job search activities per week requirement in case they audit you.

Yeah I've been documenting everything in WorkSourceWA but it's still scary thinking about no income

That's DSHS territory, not Washington ESD. You'd apply through Washington Connection for food assistance, medical coverage, etc. Different department entirely.

Thanks, I didn't know they were separate

Seriously try Claimyr if you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD. It's the only way I've been able to get through consistently. Worth every penny when you're dealing with something this important.

How does that even work? Sounds too good to be true

It basically calls for you and waits in the queue, then connects you when an agent picks up. Way better than sitting there for hours yourself.

How long did it take to process your new claim? I'm worried about gaps in benefits

Took about 3 weeks to get approved, but then I had to serve a new waiting week too. So plan for at least a month with no benefits.

Have you tried the live chat on the Washington ESD website? Sometimes that's easier than calling

The live chat is never available when I check. Always says agents are busy.

How much did it cost? I'm trying to figure out if it's worth it

I'd rather not say the exact amount but it was definitely worth it for peace of mind. Check their website for current pricing.

I'm in retail management but also looking at customer service roles. The market seems pretty competitive right now.

Retail is tough right now with all the layoffs. Have you considered temporary agencies? At least it's income while you look for permanent work.

Good point, I've been keeping up with the job search log but I should double check I'm meeting all requirements

That's harsh but unfortunately true. Sometimes you have to take what you can get.

Training programs don't extend your UI benefits, but some programs do provide additional support while you're training. Worth looking into if you qualify.

Yeah I'm starting to accept that reality. Thanks everyone for the advice, at least now I know what to expect.