How long does Washington ESD unemployment pay last - running out of benefits soon

So if I'm at 18 weeks, I should have about 8 weeks left? That's cutting it close.

Yes, that's right. Make sure you're documenting all your job search activities in case you need to file an appeal or if there are any issues with your claim.

I've been trying to log in but the site keeps timing out. So frustrating when you need to check important info like this.

Have you tried calling Washington ESD? I know the wait times are brutal but sometimes that's the only way to get answers about your specific claim.

Never heard of that before - is it legit? I'm desperate enough to try anything at this point.

Yeah it's real, they basically keep calling for you until they get through. Took about 20 minutes and I was talking to an actual Washington ESD person.

Interesting, I might have to look into that too. The phone system is impossible to navigate.

What exactly are the current job search requirements? I've been applying but not sure if I'm doing enough.

You need to make at least 3 job search activities per week and keep detailed records. Applications, interviews, networking events, etc. all count.

They'll send you a notice when you're approaching your benefit year end. If you haven't found work, you may be able to file a new claim if you've worked enough since your last claim.

That's good to know, thanks. This whole process is so stressful.

That's what I was afraid of. Did you end up finding work or what did you do?

Still looking unfortunately. Had to apply for other assistance programs and pick up some gig work to make ends meet.

Sorry to hear that. The job market is really tough right now, especially in certain sectors.

I didn't know about that option. How do I find out what programs are available?

Go to WorkSourceWA.com and look for their training opportunities. You have to get approval from Washington ESD first though.

Good point. I filed in October so my benefit year goes through next October, but I'm already at 18 weeks of actual payments.

Right, and if you go back to work for a while then get laid off again within your benefit year, you can usually restart benefits if you have weeks remaining.

Yeah I used it - worked great for me. Definitely worth trying if you're stuck in phone tree hell.

I was skeptical at first but tried it last week. Got through to Washington ESD in under 30 minutes when I'd been trying for days on my own.

Same here - the stress is real. Good luck with your job search!

Hang in there. I know it's tough but something will come through.

Good advice. I should probably start researching what other programs are available just in case.

DSHS has a bunch of programs that might help bridge the gap while you're job hunting.

The 26-week limit is pretty standard regardless of how long you worked. Your benefit amount is based on your earnings history, but the duration is capped at 26 weeks in most cases.

Man that's frustrating. I guess I better step up my job search efforts then.

That's my biggest fear right now. Did you keep looking for full-time work while doing the part-time job?

Yeah still applying but it's hard to find time for interviews with the work schedule. Catch-22 situation.

You're right. I've been pretty picky about job applications but I can't afford to be anymore.

Same here - I expanded my search radius and industry focus once I hit week 20. Better to have options.

Extended benefits are triggered when unemployment rates hit certain thresholds. Right now there are no federal or state extended programs active in Washington.

Figured as much. Guess I better find something in the next few weeks then.

Alright I'm convinced - going to try it today. Thanks for all the feedback everyone.

Let us know how it goes! Always good to hear success stories.