Washington ESD benefits exhausted - what happens when unemployment money runs out?

When your regular UI benefits are exhausted in Washington, you might be eligible for Extended Benefits (EB) if the state's unemployment rate is high enough. Right now I don't think EB is active though. You won't automatically get anything - you'd need to check if there are any federal extension programs available.

You need to look into filing a new initial claim if you've worked enough in the past year to establish a new benefit year. Washington ESD requires you to have worked in at least 2 quarters and earned a minimum amount. If you haven't worked enough, you might be eligible for state-funded programs or other assistance.

I went through this exact situation last year. When my 26 weeks ran out, that was it - no more UI payments. I had to apply for other assistance programs and really ramp up my job search. It's scary but you'll figure it out. Make sure you're registered with WorkSource too if you aren't already.

If you're having trouble getting through to Washington ESD to ask about your options, I found this service called Claimyr that helped me actually reach a live agent. You can check it out at claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. I was able to get through and ask about benefit extensions when I was in a similar situation.

honestly the whole system is messed up. they make it so hard to get help when your broke and desperate. i've been calling for weeks about my claim and can't get through to anyone

Important clarification - Extended Benefits (EB) in Washington are only available when the state unemployment rate triggers them on. Currently they're not active. However, you should still file your final weekly claims until your balance is completely zero to get every penny you're entitled to.

This happened to my sister in law. She had to start over with applying for food stamps and medicaid. Also look into emergency rental assistance programs in your county - a lot of them got extra funding and can help with back rent.

Whatever you do, don't stop doing your job searches and keeping your log. Even if benefits run out you want to maintain good records in case any extensions become available later.

Check with 211 (dial 2-1-1) they can connect you with local resources for food, housing assistance, utility help, etc. They have a good database of what's available in your area.

Are you sure you don't qualify for a new claim? Even part-time work or gig work might count toward the earnings requirement. It's worth double-checking your work history.

I used that Claimyr thing someone mentioned earlier and it actually worked. Got through to an agent who explained all my options when my benefits were about to run out. Worth trying if you can't get through the regular way.

Don't forget about WorkSource - they have job placement services and sometimes funding for training programs. Might be worth meeting with a counselor there to explore options.

DSHS has emergency assistance programs too. It's not much but can help with immediate needs while you figure out longer term solutions.

Same boat here - benefits exhausted next month and no job prospects. This thread is actually really helpful for planning ahead.

One more thing - if you do manage to get connected with a Washington ESD agent, ask specifically about any state-funded programs you might qualify for. Sometimes there are programs that aren't well publicized.

Thanks everyone for all the info and advice. This thread gave me a much better idea of what to expect and what steps to take. Still scared but at least I have a plan now.