ESD unemployment extensions in 2025? Used all 26 weeks but still job hunting

unfortunately theres no more extensions like during the pandemic. those federal programs (PEUC, PUA, etc) all ended years ago. WA state only gives the standard 26 weeks now and thats IT. i went thru this last fall and even with perfect job search records they just cut you off at week 26. its brutal but true.

While regular UI extensions don't exist anymore, you might qualify for other assistance programs depending on your situation: 1. Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) - If your job loss was related to foreign trade impacts 2. Training Benefits Program - If you're enrolled in approved training for high-demand occupations 3. WorkSource programs - They offer retraining and job placement assistance 4. Basic Food assistance (SNAP) - Can help with groceries while job hunting 5. Housing assistance programs - Contact your county's housing authority I'd recommend scheduling a meeting with a WorkSource counselor to evaluate all your options. They can help determine if you qualify for any special programs based on your work history and circumstances.

ive been on unempoyment 3 times in the last 6 yrs. theres NO extensions anymore, BUT what u can sometimes do is find even parttime work for a few months then if u lose that job u can file a new claim and potentially get more benefits. thats what i did. even working 15-20 hrs a week somewhere for 3 months can help u qualify for a whole new claim later. just sayin

when my benefits ran out i culdn't get extentions either. Dont waste ur time calling ESD, you'll just get disconnected or wait for hours. I applied for rental assistance thru my county and food stamps which helped a bit. Also check with ur utilty companies, some have hardship programs. It sux but you gotta patch together help from different places now. The system is broken!!!!

I went through this exact situation in January. After my regular benefits ended, I found that calling ESD to ask about options was nearly impossible with their constant busy signals and disconnections. I discovered a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me actually get through to a real ESD agent. You can see how it works at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 While the agent confirmed no regular extensions exist, she helped me identify that I qualified for Training Benefits since I was retraining for a new industry. This allowed me to continue receiving benefits while I complete a certification program. Not everyone qualifies, but it's worth checking if your career change involves formal training. The ESD agent walked me through the entire application process once I actually got through to them.

The whole system is RIGGED against workers. I ran out of benefits last month and didnt get a PENNY more despite applying to 200+ jobs. They expect us to just magically find jobs when the economy is terrible??!! And don't bother with WorkSource - complete waste of time with their outdated job listings and useless workshops. The only thing that helped me was a local food bank and finally moving in with my sister. ESD doesn't care if we end up homeless!

To clarify some misinformation in this thread: Washington State does still have the Training Benefits Program which can extend UI benefits for up to 52 additional weeks, but you must qualify and be approved *before* your regular benefits expire. You need to: 1. Enroll in an ESD-approved training program 2. Submit the Training Benefits application (usually through eServices) 3. Get approval from the Commissioner 4. Meet ongoing eligibility requirements The program is designed for dislocated workers retraining for in-demand fields. Since you only have 2 weeks left, I'd suggest submitting an application immediately if you're considering training. The Job Search Challenge requirement is waived during approved training, but you must maintain satisfactory progress in your program. Contact a WorkSource office tomorrow for help with the application process.

one thing nobody mentioned - if u hav a disability (even temporary) u might qualify for paid family & medical leave. not technically unemployment but it can give u some income. also food banks are everywhere now and they usually dont ask many questions. better than nothing when ur desperate

Based on the timeline you mentioned, it sounds like you need both immediate assistance and longer-term solutions. Here's what I suggest: 1. Apply for Basic Food benefits today (online through Washington Connection) 2. Contact your local WorkSource office tomorrow about Training Benefits 3. Apply for rental assistance through your county's housing authority 4. Consider part-time or gig work to supplement income while job hunting 5. Check if your profession qualifies for any specialized placement services Also, make sure you're claiming your final two weeks properly. Any mistakes could delay your final payments. Keep detailed records of all your job search activities in case you need them for future benefit eligibility.