Running out of benefits with 5 payments left - what happens after April 2025?

Unfortunately, once your regular UI claim is exhausted, that's typically it unless you qualify for an extension program. Currently, there aren't any extension programs active in Washington like there were during COVID. After April, you might want to look into other assistance programs like Basic Food (SNAP), housing assistance through DSHS, or WorkSource intensive services. Have you been working closely with WorkSource for their job placement services? They're much more effective than temp agencies in my experience and can sometimes help with training opportunities if you need to pivot careers. Also double-check that you're meeting all job search requirements (3 activities per week) and documenting everything properly.

man that SUCKS. im in kinda the same boat, got laid off from construction 7 months ago and still looking. temp agencies are THE WORST!! they act like they have so many jobs but then ghost you or offer minimum wage garbage that doesnt even cover gas money. have you tried craigslist? i found a couple random gigs there that paid cash at least

This happened to me last year. Once your UI benefits run out, ESD doesn't have any automatic extensions available right now. What I would STRONGLY recommend is calling ESD directly before your benefits end to discuss your options. They might be able to review your case for any special circumstances or direct you to other programs. The problem is actually getting through to them on the phone. I spent weeks trying to get through the busy signals and disconnects. I finally used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an ESD agent within about 40 minutes. They have a video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3. It was the only way I could actually talk to someone about my situation. The agent ended up finding an issue with my claim that qualified me for additional weeks I didn't know about.

I understand your frustration with the job market. It's absolutely challenging right now, especially in certain industries. Regarding your benefits: once your regular unemployment benefits are exhausted, you would need to qualify for some type of extension program, but those aren't currently available in Washington state outside of special circumstances. However, I recommend taking these steps before your benefits end: 1. Request an eligibility review with ESD to ensure you're receiving all benefits you're entitled to 2. Ask specifically about Training Benefits (TB) if you're willing to enroll in approved training programs - this can extend your benefits while you gain new skills 3. Connect with your local WorkSource office for intensive services - they offer far more than just workshops including personalized job placement assistance 4. Consider applying for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) if your job loss was related to foreign trade What industry are you in? Some sectors have special programs that might apply to your situation.

ESD IS A TOTAL JOKE!! I went thru the EXACT same thing last year. Applied to 20+ jobs a week for MONTHS. No responses except automated rejections. These companies aren't actually hiring - they're just collecting resumes or trying to look like they're growing to their investors!!! And those temp agencies? SCAMMERS all of them!!!! They get paid just for adding you to their "database" even if they never find you work. Once your benefits run out, you're screwed unless you can get on some other kind of assistance. The whole system is designed to LOOK like its helping while actually doing nothing. After my benefits ran out I ended up having to move in with my sister because I couldn't pay rent anymore. THANKS FOR NOTHING, WASHINGTON!!!!!

might sound weird but have you tried looking at jobs that aren't exactly what you did before? my brother was stuck looking for marketing jobs for like 8 months and then he applied for some customer service role that had a little bit of marketing stuff and got hired right away. sometimes you gotta take a step backwards to move forward again

One thing that helped me when I was in a similar position was joining industry-specific groups on LinkedIn and networking events through the local chamber of commerce. I made a connection that led to an interview that wasn't even posted publicly. Also, have you considered working with a career counselor at WorkSource? They have free services that can review your resume and interview techniques. Sometimes there are small things we're doing that are sending the wrong signals to employers.

I had this exact same situation in 2023. What I did was call ESD and explain my situation. They connected me with a program called Dislocated Worker through WorkSource that gave me training funds to learn new skills while still receiving some financial support. You might qualify for something similar. Also, don't give up hope on the job front. The market goes through weird cycles. I applied to 200+ jobs with nothing, then suddenly got 3 interviews in one week and a job offer. It's frustrating and sometimes feels random, but persistence eventually pays off. One last thing - have you had someone review your resume and cover letters? Sometimes small tweaks can make a huge difference in getting through the initial screening systems. WorkSource offers this service for free.