Washington ESD - once your unemployment runs out what happens next?

So I'd have to work for a certain amount of time before I could file again? How much work do you need?

You need to earn at least $7,500 in covered employment during your base period to qualify for a new claim. The base period is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters.

I've been working with WorkSource but haven't heard about training programs. Do they pay you while you're in training?

Some training programs do provide financial assistance. You should ask your WorkSource counselor about WIOA funded programs or other vocational training options.

Did you find any programs when you called? And what's Claimyr exactly?

Claimyr helps you get through to Washington ESD phone lines automatically instead of calling hundreds of times yourself. I didn't find any extension programs but they helped me understand my options better and confirmed when I'd be eligible to file again.

I've done some temp work but it's not consistent enough to really count on. Plus I worry about how that affects my job search requirements.

Temp work is fine as long as you keep looking for permanent employment and report any earnings on your weekly claims while you still have benefits.

I feel your frustration but complaining doesn't help solve the immediate problem.

You're right, I'm just venting. It's a broken system though.

What kind of documentation should I save from my job search?

Keep records of where you applied, when, any responses you got, networking activities, and any job training or education you completed. If you file a new claim later, this could be helpful.

That's what I'm worried about. Did he eventually find work?

took about 3 months but yeah he found something. had to take a lower paying job than before though

Good point, I hadn't thought about that. Will my premiums go down if I have no income?

Possibly yes, depending on your situation you might qualify for Apple Health (Medicaid) or higher premium tax credits.

I think I used all my vacation when I got laid off but I should double check my final pay stub.

8 weeks is still time to find something. Have you worked with a career counselor or had someone review your resume recently?

No I've been doing everything on my own. Maybe I should look into that.

I didn't know that! How often do you have to update your WorkSource registration?

You should keep your profile current and continue using their services. The registration itself doesn't expire but staying active shows continued job search efforts.

That gives me some hope! Were you doing anything different in those last few weeks?

I started applying to jobs I had previously thought were beneath me, expanded my search radius, and got more aggressive about following up on applications.

Yes, approved training programs can count toward your job search requirements and some even allow you to expand your search area requirements.

where do you find the approved ones?

Check with WorkSource or look on the Washington ESD website for their approved training provider list.

You're absolutely right. I think I've been too picky about what I'll accept.

I didn't know you could file for partial benefits! How does that work exactly?

If you work part-time or earn less than your weekly benefit amount, you might still qualify for some unemployment. You report your earnings and they reduce your benefit accordingly. Definitely worth calling Washington ESD about if that situation comes up.

That's smart planning. I should probably look into what resources are in my area.

How do I know if I've worked enough hours? I did some temp work a few months ago.

You'd need to have earned enough wages in covered employment. Best to call Washington ESD and ask them to review your work history to see if you qualify. That's another situation where Claimyr could help you get through to speak with someone.

Same, lots of good information I hadn't considered. Thanks everyone for the advice.

You're right, I should start making those calls now rather than waiting until I'm behind on bills.

Many utility companies have hardship programs that can help bridge gaps in income. Definitely worth asking about before you fall behind.

Thanks, I really appreciate all the support and advice from everyone. I'll definitely update if anything changes.