Union tradesperson running out of benefits - any extensions available in 2025?

I'm in a similar situation with IBEW (electrical). Unemployment doesn't really understand how union hiring halls work and it's frustrating. I had to explain multiple times why I couldn't just take any job anywhere. When my benefits ran out last year I had to take non-union work for 3 months before getting back in. Lost my health insurance for my family during that time too. The system is broken for us trade workers!

To answer your question directly - there aren't any automatic extensions currently available in Washington state like there were during COVID. However, there are a couple options for your situation: 1. Training Benefits Program - If you qualify for training in a high-demand field, you might get up to 52 additional weeks while in approved training. 2. Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) - This is only if your unemployment is related to foreign trade impact. 3. Shared Work Program - Not applicable in your case since you need an employer to participate. Your best option might be to speak with your union rep about how to handle this situation. Some unions have hardship funds or can provide guidance on how to balance job search requirements while maintaining your hall check-ins.

have u asked ur hall if they can sigh off on ur job search? My uncle is ironworker and his BA signs his job search form each week saying he reported for work call. ESD accepts this as job search activity

When my benefits ran out I was in total panic mode. Called ESD every day for 2 weeks straight and could NEVER get through. Always the same recorded message saying high call volume, try again later, then it would hang up on me. So frustrating!!! I needed to ask about extensions too.

The whole system is ridiculous for trades. I'm a carpenter and got disqualified because I turned down a job that was 3 hours from my house when gas would've cost more than I'd make. ESD doesn't get how specialized our work is or how the halls operate.

I'm sorry to say this, but in my experience once regular benefits run out, there's not much else available unless there's a recession and federal extensions get approved by Congress. Not trying to be negative, just realistic based on my experience. The Training Benefits program mentioned above is worth exploring, but it has specific eligibility requirements and you'd need to be enrolled in approved training. One suggestion: talk to your union rep about possibly getting a temporary leave from the daily sign-in requirement so you can pick up non-union work temporarily without losing your place in line. Some locals have provisions for this during slow periods. It's worth asking about rather than losing all income.

my cousin said somthing about EB (extended benefits) but i think thats only when unemployment is really high in the state

Have you considered looking into other benefits that might help bridge the gap? Sometimes when UI runs out, people qualify for programs like: - SNAP (food benefits) - Energy assistance programs - Temporary hardship assistance through DSHS Not ideal, but might help keep things afloat until work picks up again. Also, check with WorkSource - they sometimes have special programs for dislocated workers that include short-term financial assistance.

One more thought: since you mentioned having kids, make sure you've filed for all tax credits you're eligible for this year. The Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit can provide significant help if you had reduced income last year. If you've already filed, great, but if not, these credits might provide some additional funds to help bridge the gap until you find steady work again.