Can you refile for unemployment after it runs out - Washington ESD options?

I haven't worked at all during my claim period, so I guess I don't qualify for a new regular claim. What are these extended benefits you mentioned?

Extended benefits are additional weeks that sometimes become available during high unemployment periods. They're not always active though - it depends on the state's unemployment rate. You'd need to check with Washington ESD to see if they're currently offered.

How did you finally get through to them? I'm dealing with the same calling nightmare right now.

I actually found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to a Washington ESD agent. They have this system that keeps calling until they reach someone, then patches you through. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Saved me so much time and stress.

That sounds almost too good to be true. Does it actually work?

Yeah, it worked for me. Got connected within a few hours instead of days of trying myself. The agent was able to explain my refiling options and help me understand what documents I needed.

This is confusing. So even if my weekly benefit amount goes to zero, I still have to wait until my benefit year ends to refile?

Exactly. Your benefit year is 52 weeks from when you first filed. Even if you use up all your weeks of benefits before then, you can't start a new claim until that year ends.

That makes sense now. My benefit year doesn't end until next month, so I need to wait until then to see if I can refile.

I know it's frustrating, but the rules are actually pretty consistent. The challenge is that everyone's situation is different - some people work during their claim, some don't, some have special circumstances. That's why it's hard to give one-size-fits-all answers.

still shouldn't be this hard to get basic info though. like why do i have to become an expert just to know if my sister can get benefits

You might be thinking of Training Benefits (TB). If you're enrolled in approved training, you can sometimes get additional weeks of benefits beyond your regular claim. But you have to apply for this before your regular benefits run out, and the training has to be pre-approved by Washington ESD.

Oh that's interesting. How do you get training approved? Is it like going back to school?

It can be various types of training - vocational programs, some college courses, certification programs. You need to get approval from Washington ESD before you start, and it has to be for an occupation with good job prospects in your area.

What if I did some gig work like DoorDash? Would that count toward wages for a new claim?

Gig work usually doesn't count for regular UI because it's 1099 income, not W-2. You need traditional employment where unemployment taxes were paid. Gig workers typically aren't eligible for regular unemployment benefits.

Darn, that's what I was afraid of. So I really need to focus on finding regular employment before my benefits run out.

I mentioned Claimyr earlier - seriously consider trying it. I was skeptical at first but it really does work. Way better than spending entire days hitting redial.

Is that service expensive? I'm already stretched thin financially.

It's worth checking out their site to see if it fits your budget. For me, the time saved was worth it - I was losing whole days trying to get through on my own.

Are you talking about like the pandemic extensions? I thought those all ended.

Yes, the pandemic programs ended. I'm talking about regular extended benefits that can sometimes be triggered when state unemployment rates are high enough. But these are rare and depend on economic conditions.

At least you don't have to wait a full week like when you first apply. If you're eligible for a new claim, benefits can start right away.

That's true, but you still have to deal with all the paperwork and potential adjudication issues. And if they have questions about your previous claim, it can delay everything.

I never worked during my claim period, so I think I need to file completely new. My benefit year ends next month anyway.

Right, in your case you'll need to wait until your benefit year ends and then file a new claim. Just make sure you have the work history to qualify.

Yes, I used it and it worked great. Definitely worth trying if you're stuck in the calling loop. Check out their demo video to see how it works.

I was skeptical but tried it last week. Actually got through to an agent the same day. The agent was really helpful explaining my benefit options and what I needed to do next.

ok that sounds promising. anything is better than what im doing now which is clearly not working

Good point. I assume I'll need to register with WorkSourceWA again?

Yes, you'll need to maintain your WorkSourceWA registration and continue meeting the work search requirements. Usually 3 job search activities per week, but verify the current requirements.

That's smart. I should probably start looking into training programs now instead of waiting until my benefits run out.

Exactly. Some programs have waiting lists or application deadlines. Better to have options lined up than scramble at the last minute.

WorkSource offices can help with training program information too. They have counselors who can explain what's available and help you apply.

How long did it take to get approved for your new claim?

About 2 weeks for the determination, then another week for the first payment. Faster than my original claim, but still required patience.

This has been really helpful everyone. Sounds like I need to wait until my benefit year ends next month, then see if I have enough wages to qualify for a new claim. If not, I'll look into training programs and other assistance.

Good luck! And don't hesitate to get help navigating the system. Whether it's calling Washington ESD directly or using a service like Claimyr, it's worth getting accurate information about your specific situation.