Can you get more unemployment when it runs out - Washington ESD extension options?

Unfortunately, regular unemployment insurance in Washington has a maximum of 26 weeks during normal economic times. There aren't automatic extensions like there were during the pandemic. Your best bet is to make sure you've exhausted all your regular UI benefits first, then check if you qualify for any federal extension programs if they're active.

Check with Washington ESD about Extended Benefits (EB) - this kicks in during high unemployment periods in the state. But honestly, most of the time it's not active. You can also look into training programs through WorkSourceWA that might come with extended benefits while you're in school.

Same boat here, my benefits run out next month. Been on regular UI since last summer when I was laid off from my marketing job. The job market is brutal right now, especially in tech-adjacent fields. Really hoping there's some kind of safety net beyond 26 weeks.

You might want to look into the Trade Readjustment Allowance (TRA) if your job loss was due to foreign trade. It can provide up to 104 weeks of benefits but you have to qualify for the Trade Adjustment Assistance program first. Most people don't know about this option.

this is why the system is broken!!! 26 weeks is nothing when companies are taking months to hire people. meanwhile we're supposed to just survive on nothing? meanwhile politicians get their full salaries... sorry just frustrated

Check if you qualify for Disaster Unemployment Assistance if there were any declared disasters in your area that affected your employment. It's a long shot but worth looking into.

One thing to keep in mind - make sure you file for your last week of benefits even if you think you're at the end. Sometimes people miscalculate and leave money on the table. Also, if you do find work part-time, you might still qualify for partial benefits.

i think there's also something called Shared Work if employers offer it? where you work reduced hours but still get some unemployment. not sure if that helps your situation tho

Update on that Claimyr thing I mentioned - I actually tried it yesterday and got through to someone at Washington ESD in like 15 minutes. Crazy! Worth the money just to not spend hours on hold. They helped me figure out my benefit balance and confirmed when my benefits actually end. The site is claimyr.com if anyone wants to check it out.

For anyone reading this thread, the most important thing is to keep filing your weekly claims until you get a definitive notice that your benefits are exhausted. Don't assume - get official confirmation from Washington ESD about your benefit balance and end date.

Also look into local workforce development programs. Some offer stipends or support while you're in training for new careers. It's not unemployment but it's something while you transition.

been there, benefits ran out last year and it was terrifying. ended up finding work about 3 weeks after they ended. just keep pushing through the applications, something will come through

One more option to mention - if you're a veteran, there might be additional unemployment benefits available through VA programs. Also, some union members have supplemental unemployment benefits. Worth checking if either applies to your situation.

The reality is that for most people, regular UI is all you get unless there's a recession or national emergency. Focus on networking, updating your resume, and maybe considering jobs slightly outside your usual field. Sometimes you gotta take what's available.

Just wanted to follow up - that Claimyr service was super helpful. They confirmed that Extended Benefits aren't currently active in Washington state, so regular UI really is all that's available right now. At least I have definitive info instead of wondering.

Final advice: document everything from your job search, keep your resume updated, and don't let the stress paralyze you. The job market is tough but not impossible. Many people in your situation have found work - you can too.