Washington ESD claim balance hit zero - what happens when you run out of your claim balance on unemployment?

So if EB isn't active, I'm just out of luck? That seems crazy after only 26 weeks.

Not necessarily. You might be able to file a new claim if you've worked enough hours since your original claim started. Check your work history in eServices.

I might have gotten something but honestly the mail from ESD all looks the same to me. I should probably dig through it.

Yeah definitely check. The notice should explain if you can file a new claim or if there are any extensions available.

How does that work exactly? I've been trying to call for weeks with no luck.

They basically handle the calling for you and get you connected to an actual ESD rep. Way better than sitting on hold for hours just to get disconnected.

Sounds too good to be true but at this point I'm desperate enough to try anything.

I did work part-time for about 3 months during my claim period. Would that count toward the 680 hours?

Yes, as long as you reported those hours correctly on your weekly claims. Check your quarterly wage statement in eServices to see your total hours.

Wait, you can work part-time while on unemployment? I thought that disqualified you completely.

No, you can work part-time. Washington ESD just reduces your weekly benefit amount based on how much you earn. It's actually encouraged.

I feel you on this. It's so frustrating when you're doing everything right and still can't get help.

Did you check if you qualified for a new claim though? If you worked at all during your benefit year you might have been eligible.

I tried but they said I didn't have enough hours. The whole system is designed to screw people over.

3 weeks?? That's insane. I need to know now what my options are.

yeah thats why everyone tries calling but good luck with that lol

Thank you for the insider info! So if I don't qualify for either EB or a new claim, what other options do I have?

Unfortunately, if you don't qualify for either, your only option is to keep job searching and potentially apply for other assistance programs like SNAP or TANF if eligible.

What about those federal extensions they had during COVID? Are those still available?

No, all the pandemic-era extensions (PEUC, PUA, etc.) ended in September 2021. Only state Extended Benefits are available now when triggered.

How long has it been since you filed the new claim? Are you getting any updates?

Filed it 3 weeks ago and nothing. eServices just shows 'claim under review' with no timeline.

That sounds like it might be in adjudication. Could take months unfortunately.

Seriously considering this Claimyr thing. Regular calling is getting me nowhere.

I was skeptical too but it actually worked. Much better than the alternative of waiting months for a callback that never comes.

Extended Benefits are automatic if the state qualifies. New regular claims require you to file a new application.

Got it, thanks. Better start preparing my documents just in case.

Tell me about it. I thought I'd be back to work by now but every application seems to disappear into a black hole.

Hang in there. I just got hired after 8 months of searching. It happens when you least expect it.

Exactly right. Any wages earned during your current benefit year (March 2024-March 2025 in your case) can count toward a new claim if you have enough hours.

Okay that makes sense. I did some gig work so hopefully that's enough hours.

Good point. I've been so focused on the unemployment claim that I haven't thought about backup plans.

Also check with local food banks and utility assistance programs. There's help out there beyond just unemployment.

What kind of plan did you make? I feel like I'm flying blind here.

I budgeted for at least 2 months with no income, applied for SNAP ahead of time, and expanded my job search to include stuff I wouldn't normally consider. Also lined up some temporary gig work.

Different how? Higher or lower?

Could go either way depending on what you earned during your benefit year. If you only worked part-time or low-wage jobs, it might be lower.

I'll look into that. I've been using WorkSource for job searches but haven't explored other features.

Yeah they have training programs and stuff that might help. Worth checking out.

Will do! This thread has been super helpful. At least now I know what questions to ask when I finally get through to someone at ESD.

Yeah this is way more useful than anything on the official ESD website.

That's interesting. Do you know how long those training benefits last?

Depends on the program but I think it can be up to 2 years for some vocational training. You'd have to qualify and get approved though.

Good reminder. I was wondering about that - whether I should keep filing even with a zero balance.

Definitely keep filing. If benefits become available later, you don't want any missed weeks that you can't get paid for.

So true. The stress of not knowing what comes next is almost worse than the money problems.

The mental health aspect doesn't get talked about enough. It's isolating and demoralizing.

Have you looked into any mental health resources? Some are available on a sliding scale or free.