How to apply for extended unemployment benefits in Washington ESD - running out of regular UI

Wait, so there's absolutely nothing after my 26 weeks are up? That seems really harsh, especially with how tough the job market still is in some sectors.

Correct, there's no automatic extension right now. You might want to look into other assistance programs like SNAP or temporary assistance while you continue job searching.

How did you manage to get through to someone at Washington ESD? I've been trying to call for weeks about various questions and can never get past the busy signal.

I actually used a service called Claimyr that helped me get through. You can check it out at claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that explains how it works. Basically they handle the calling and waiting for you.

Do you know what the current unemployment rate is? I feel like it's got to be higher than 5% in some areas.

The state rate is what matters for EB, not local rates. Last I checked, Washington's rate was around 4.2%, so we're not close to triggering extended benefits.

I know it's frustrating, but that's how the system works when there are no extended programs active. Make sure you're maximizing your remaining weeks by keeping up with all requirements.

Yeah I'm definitely staying compliant with everything. Just wish there was more support for people who are genuinely trying but haven't found work yet.

The federal extensions (PEUC, PUA, etc.) were all pandemic-related and ended in September 2021. There's no current federal extension program, and Congress hasn't passed any new ones.

Got it, thanks for clarifying. So we're basically back to the pre-pandemic system where you get 26 weeks and that's it unless the state's unemployment rate triggers EB.

There's nothing to appeal - if you've received your full 26 weeks of regular UI, that's the program working as designed. Appeals are for when you're denied benefits you should be eligible for.

That's what I was afraid of. Guess I need to start looking into other assistance programs ASAP.

You can file a new claim after your benefit year ends if you've earned sufficient wages during that year. But you need to meet the same wage requirements as a new claimant - basically you need to have worked enough to qualify again.

I did some gig work and part-time stuff, so maybe I'll have enough wages. I should probably call Washington ESD to check what my earnings were during the benefit year.

I mean, you're supposed to be looking for 'suitable work' which includes jobs that might pay less than your previous job after a certain period. The system does expect you to be flexible.

Yeah but 'suitable work' requirements are pretty vague and seem to vary depending on who you talk to at Washington ESD.

What other programs did you qualify for? I'm trying to figure out what might be available.

SNAP for food assistance, and my county had some rental assistance programs. Also looked into WorkSource WA for additional job search resources.

That's probably wise. The closer you get to exhausting benefits, the more pressure you'll feel, and it's better to have options before you're desperate.

Definitely. I'm going to start applying to jobs I might have passed on before.

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier - they basically handle all the calling and waiting for you. I was skeptical at first but it actually worked and I got to talk to someone within a few hours instead of spending days trying to call myself.

I'll have to check that out. At this point I'm willing to try anything to get some actual answers from a real person.

There are some training programs that can extend benefits, but they're very specific and you have to be approved for them before your regular benefits run out. Look into programs through WorkSource WA if you're interested.

I'll definitely look into that. Better to explore all options while I still have some weeks left.

I feel you. I'm in a rural area and there just aren't that many opportunities, especially in my field. But the system treats everyone the same regardless of location.

Exactly. It's not like I'm being lazy - there literally aren't enough jobs for everyone looking.

There's always discussion about unemployment reform, but nothing concrete on the horizon. States set their own benefit duration within federal guidelines, and Washington has been at 26 weeks for a long time.

I figured it was a long shot but worth asking. Guess we just have to work with the system as it exists now.

Once you exhaust benefits, you're done filing weekly claims. Your claim just ends. You can't reopen it unless you become eligible for a new claim based on new earnings.

That makes sense. At least I won't have to keep doing the weekly reporting once I'm done.

That's exactly right. Make the most of your remaining weeks and don't wait until the last minute to explore other resources.

Same here. This thread was really helpful even though it wasn't the answer I was hoping for. At least now I know what to expect and can plan accordingly.

Good point. I've been keeping track but I should probably double-check that I'm meeting all the requirements exactly as specified.

Definitely worth calling Washington ESD to confirm if you have any doubts. Or use that Claimyr service someone mentioned to get through to an agent who can review your compliance.

I'm in a similar boat - week 24 here and really feeling the pressure! From what I've gathered in this thread, WorkSource WA seems to be the main resource for job training programs that might provide some support. I'd also suggest looking into your local DSHS office for programs like SNAP, Basic Food, and maybe even temporary cash assistance depending on your situation. Some counties also have emergency rental assistance or utility help programs. It's not the same as unemployment benefits, but it might help cover basics while you're job hunting. I'm planning to make some calls this week to see what I might qualify for before my benefits run out.