How long can a person get unemployment benefits in Washington state?

Thanks! So after 26 weeks that's it? No state extensions or anything?

Correct, no state extensions currently. You might be eligible for other programs like SNAP or housing assistance, but unemployment benefits themselves max out at 26 weeks.

There can be exceptions for certain training programs. If you're enrolled in approved job training through WorkSource, you might be able to extend benefits while in training. But you have to get approval first.

Interesting, I hadn't heard about the training extensions. Do you know how to apply for that?

Never heard of Claimyr before. Does it actually work for getting through to Washington ESD?

Yeah, it's legit. They basically handle the calling process for you so you don't have to sit on hold. I used it when I was confused about my benefit year ending and needed to talk to someone about whether I could file a new claim.

Different states have different rules. In Washington, it's definitely 26 weeks maximum for regular UI. Some states do offer more, but Washington caps it at 26.

That sucks. 26 weeks isn't very long when you're looking for a decent job, not just any job.

Yes, they cut you off at 26 weeks regardless of your job search status. The only way to get more benefits is if you qualify for a new benefit year by working enough hours since your last claim.

That's terrifying. I haven't worked enough hours to qualify for a new claim. Guess I need to start applying for survival jobs.

Did the gig work affect your eligibility if you found a regular job later?

As long as you report the gig income properly, it shouldn't hurt your future eligibility. Just make sure to keep track of all your earnings.

Exactly! I lost 3 weeks just waiting for my claim to clear adjudication. So really I only have 23 weeks of actual benefits.

Same thing happened to me. The adjudication process is ridiculous. Lost a month of benefits while they 'investigated' my claim.

I know someone who got extended benefits while doing a medical assistant program through a community college. But it has to be approved by WorkSource and related to high-demand occupations.

Thanks, I'll look into that. Might be worth exploring if it can extend benefits while I retrain.

That's kind of the point though, isn't it? Unemployment isn't supposed to be a permanent solution.

I get that, but sometimes it takes longer than 26 weeks to find work in your field. Not everyone can just take any minimum wage job.

How much does Claimyr cost? Is it worth it just to get information?

It was worth it for me because I couldn't get through on my own after trying for days. They handle the calling process so you don't waste time on hold.

Good advice. I'm at week 15 and probably should start thinking about backup plans now.

Definitely. Look into food assistance, housing programs, and other support services before you need them. The application process can take time.

Yes, any week you claim benefits counts toward your 26-week maximum, even if it's partial unemployment. The clock keeps ticking regardless of the amount you receive.

That's what I was afraid of. So working part-time doesn't really extend your benefits, it just reduces them.

I feel for you. Have you looked into temp agencies? Sometimes they can place you quickly even if it's not your ideal job.

Yeah, I've registered with a few temp agencies but they haven't called with anything yet. Starting to think I need to lower my standards.

Do you know how much you need to earn to qualify for a new claim?

I think it's around $7,000 in covered wages, but don't quote me on that. The Washington ESD website has the exact requirements.

That's helpful to know. I keep seeing conflicting information online about extensions.

Yeah, a lot of the info online is outdated from when there were federal extensions during COVID. Those programs ended a while ago.

How's the Uber income? Is it enough to survive on?

It's not great but it's better than nothing. Probably making about 60% of what I was getting from unemployment, but at least it's something coming in.

Did you try to get approved for training benefits?

I looked into it but the programs that qualified didn't fit my situation. Most were healthcare or trades-related. Nothing in my field.

Thanks everyone for all the info. Sounds like I need to get more serious about my job search and start planning for after benefits end.

Good luck! The job market is tough but 18 weeks is still enough time to find something if you stay focused.