How to apply for extended unemployment benefits in Washington - need help with the process

I've been trying to call for days but can never get through. The phone just rings and rings or I get a busy signal.

Same here, I gave up trying to call Washington ESD weeks ago. Their phone system is completely useless.

So there's literally nothing available after regular UI runs out? That seems crazy given how hard it is to find work right now.

Unfortunately that's correct for now. The EB program is tied to state unemployment rates and federal formulas. You should definitely explore retraining programs though - some have income support.

Did you have any issues with Washington ESD when you started working part-time? I'm worried about messing up my claim status.

You have to report all earnings on your weekly claims. As long as you're honest about hours and wages, you should be fine. Just make sure to keep detailed records.

Is this legit? I'm desperate enough to try anything at this point but don't want to get scammed.

Yeah it's real. They basically call Washington ESD for you and get you connected to an actual person. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.

I was skeptical too but tried Claimyr when I couldn't reach Washington ESD about my adjudication issue. Actually worked and got me through to someone who could help.

The system isn't perfect but unemployment benefits were never meant to be permanent income replacement. They're supposed to provide temporary support while you find work.

temporary support that runs out before you can find decent work in this economy. real helpful.

I checked and it shows my benefit year ends next month. Haven't gotten any letters or messages about what to do next.

That's typical. Washington ESD is terrible at proactive communication. You'll probably need to call them directly to find out your options.

Yes, completely different programs. Training benefits can extend your claim if you're enrolled in approved training, but extended benefits (EB) are additional weeks based on unemployment rates.

Thanks for clarifying! I should look into the training option then since EB isn't available.

Back to the calling problem though. How do I actually reach someone at Washington ESD when their phones are always busy?

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. They specialize in getting through to Washington ESD when the normal phone lines are jammed.

If no extended programs are available, yes, benefits end when you exhaust your regular UI. You'd need to file a new claim if you have enough work history in the base period.

That's terrifying. No wonder people are struggling so much right now.

Those were all temporary federal programs that ended in 2021. PEUC, FPUC, PUA - all gone. Now we're back to just regular UI and the standard Extended Benefits program when it's triggered.

Man, I didn't realize how much extra help was available during COVID until it was gone.

Do you know how to find out what training programs are available? The WorkSource website is almost as confusing as Washington ESD's.

You can visit a WorkSource center in person or call them. They're usually more helpful than trying to navigate the website.

The system definitely has problems but unfortunately that's what we're working with. Focus on what you can control - job searching, training opportunities, maybe part-time work.

easier said than done when you cant even get through to anyone at washington esd to ask questions

Ok I keep seeing Claimyr mentioned. Is there a cost or is it free?

There is a cost but honestly it was worth it to avoid the frustration of trying to call Washington ESD myself. Check their website for current pricing.

How do I know if I have enough work history for a new claim? I worked for about 6 months before I got laid off.

You need earnings in at least two quarters of your base period. Washington ESD can tell you if you qualify when you contact them about your situation.

Is there any way to know when or if extended benefits might become available in the future?

Washington ESD would announce it if the triggers are met, but don't count on it happening anytime soon given current economic conditions.

At least I'm not alone in this situation. It's scary though.

yeah definitely scary but we'll figure it out somehow. maybe look into gig work or temp agencies as backup options

How long did it take to get the new claim processed? I'm worried about gaps in payments.

Took about 3 weeks for me, but that was last year. Processing times seem to vary a lot with Washington ESD.

Good point, I'll definitely keep filing until I get official notice that my claim is ending.

Exactly. Washington ESD will send you information about your claim ending, but keep filing until then to avoid any issues.

Glad I'm not the only one who was confused about this. The information isn't easy to find on Washington ESD's website.

Yeah their website is terrible for finding clear information about what happens when benefits end.

I think I'm going to try Claimyr since everyone here seems to have had good experiences. Better than wasting days trying to call myself.

Smart choice. Their video demo really shows you how it works if you want to check that out first.