Washington ESD unemployment benefits exhausted - what happens next?

I checked my account but don't see any extended benefits option. Does that mean they're not available right now?

Extended Benefits are only triggered when the state unemployment rate meets certain thresholds. If you don't see the option, they're probably not active in Washington right now.

Thanks, I hadn't thought about those other programs. Do I apply through Washington ESD or somewhere else?

Those programs are through DSHS (Department of Social and Health Services), not Washington ESD. You can apply online at washingtonconnection.org

Really? How does that work exactly? I've been trying to call Washington ESD for days but keep getting disconnected.

It basically handles the calling and waiting for you, then connects you when an agent becomes available. Much better than sitting on hold for hours.

I've heard of Claimyr too, my friend used it when she had issues with her claim. Seems legit from what she told me.

I haven't really looked into training programs. Do they conflict with job search requirements?

No, approved training programs actually satisfy your job search requirements. You'd work with a WorkSource counselor to get enrolled in an approved program.

What field are you in? I'm in marketing and it's been really tough too.

I'm in IT support. You'd think there would be more opportunities but everything wants 5+ years experience for 'entry level' positions.

Same here, been looking for 4 months now in accounting. It's discouraging when you meet all the requirements but never hear back.

Good point, I've been keeping my job search log updated just in case.

This is important - I stopped documenting after my benefits ended and then had to scramble to reconstruct everything when EB became available.

The pandemic programs like PUA and PEUC ended in 2021. Regular UI and Extended Benefits are the only unemployment programs available now.

Oh okay, thanks for clarifying. I wasn't sure what was still around.

I've been thinking about that. Do I need to report temp work to Washington ESD even if my benefits have ended?

If your benefits have completely ended and you're not receiving any payments, you don't need to report work. But if you become eligible for benefits again later, you'd need to report any work during that gap period.

That's a good idea if I can actually get through to someone. The phone lines are always so busy.

That's why I mentioned Claimyr earlier - it really does make getting through to ESD much easier when you need to speak with someone.

That's about how many I'm applying to daily too. It's exhausting but what choice do we have?

Exactly, just have to keep pushing forward. Something will come through eventually.

You're right, I probably haven't been doing enough networking. It feels awkward reaching out to people when you're unemployed though.

I understand that feeling, but most people are understanding about job searching. Former colleagues often want to help if they can.

That's a good suggestion. I hadn't thought about community resources.

211 is a good resource too - dial 2-1-1 and they can connect you with local assistance programs.

I agree, the hiring process has gotten so drawn out. I've had interviews where they said they'd get back to me in a week and it's been a month.

Companies are being way too picky. They want unicorn candidates for basic positions.

How do I tell the difference? My account just says my benefits have ended.

Log into your Washington ESD account and look at your claim details. It should show your benefit year dates (usually 52 weeks from when you first filed) and how many weeks you've used.

I've thought about that. Do you know if gig work affects your ability to get benefits later if Extended Benefits become available?

As long as you report any earnings if you do get benefits again, it shouldn't be a problem. Just keep good records of what you earn.

I think I will try calling them. Thanks for the Claimyr suggestion - I'll check out that video demo.

Claimyr worked for me too when I needed to get through to ESD about my overpayment notice. Way better than trying to call on your own.

Thanks for the encouragement. Some days are harder than others but I'm trying to stay positive.

We're all rooting for you! Keep us updated on how things go.

Good point. I'll make sure to understand those rules before accepting any work.

Yeah, it's better to know upfront than be surprised later. Washington ESD should be able to explain the specifics when you call them.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful suggestions. This thread has given me several new things to look into.

This is why I love this forum - people actually help each other out instead of just complaining.

Will do! I'll update this thread once I get more information about my options.

Looking forward to the update. I'm sure I'll be in the same situation soon.