ESD benefits exhausted - should I still file weekly claims?

Thank you! I wasn't sure if it mattered. So I'll keep doing my 3 job search activities and submitting them through eServices even though there's no payment. Hopefully I find work soon but it's good to know there might be benefits to keeping the record going.

Same! I stopped filing for like 3 weeks after my benefits ran out and then had to call ESD about a million times to get everything fixed when the extension kicked in. Keep filing your claims!!

While I understand your frustration, this advice isn't accurate. Continuing to file weekly claims after benefits exhaust serves several important purposes: - Maintains your claim as active in the system - Establishes a continuous record of unemployment - Positions you for automatic enrollment if extended benefits are authorized - Provides documented proof of ongoing job search for other assistance programs ESD actually recommends continuing to file claims after benefits exhaust for these exact reasons. It only takes a few minutes each week and could save significant hassle later.

I had the same problem trying to reach ESD about my exhausted benefits! I finally used this service called Claimyr that got me through to a real agent in about 20 minutes. They basically call ESD for you and then connect you when they get through. Saved me days of frustration. Their website is claimyr.com and they have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 The agent I spoke with confirmed that yes, you should keep filing weekly claims even after benefits are exhausted. She explained it keeps your claim active in their system in case any additional benefits become available.

That's great information! WorkSource is correct. The continued claims not only keep you positioned for any potential benefits but also maintain your status for their services. The job placement programs at WorkSource can be really valuable, and some employers specifically work with them for hiring.

Yes, you still need to complete and document your 3 job search activities each week if you're filing claims, even after benefits exhaust. This maintains your claim as "active" in the system. If you don't do the activities or don't file, your claim becomes inactive. It might seem pointless, but if any extensions or additional benefits become available, having an active claim with documented job search activities means you could receive those benefits immediately rather than having to restart the whole process.

You're right that there aren't currently any federal extensions like during COVID. However, there are still some situations where additional benefits might become available: 1. If your state's unemployment rate rises above certain thresholds, Extended Benefits (EB) can automatically trigger 2. If you qualify for Training Benefits while pursuing approved training 3. If there's a major economic downturn or localized disaster 4. If wage corrections or late-reported wages are added to your claim While these aren't common, maintaining an active claim ensures you'd be eligible if any apply to your situation.