Washington ESD unemployment benefits exhausted - what options are left?

How do I know if Extended Benefits are available? I haven't seen anything on my Washington ESD account about it.

Check the Washington ESD website - they post when EB is triggered. It's not automatic, you have to apply separately if it becomes available.

I've been keeping track in WorkSourceWA like they require. Should I be doing anything else?

Keep your own backup records too, don't just rely on their system. Save job posting screenshots and application confirmations.

Never heard of that service before, does it actually work for Washington ESD?

Yeah it worked for me when I couldn't get through the regular way. Saved me hours of trying to call.

I might try that because I've been calling for days with no luck getting through to anyone.

Same here, it's like they don't want to help people. The whole system needs an overhaul.

The call volume is definitely overwhelming their system. Try calling right when they open at 8am for better chances.

Good point, I should probably apply for SNAP benefits. Do you know if having unemployment income affects eligibility?

When your unemployment ends, that actually helps your SNAP eligibility since your income drops. Apply as soon as possible.

My account shows zero balance and zero weeks remaining. Pretty sure I got all 26 weeks.

Double check your claim history just to be sure. Sometimes the display isn't updated correctly.

I've been applying to everything but even temp agencies aren't calling back much. The competition is intense.

Try grocery stores and delivery services - they're usually hiring. Not ideal but better than nothing.

I'm going to try it tomorrow. At this point I need to explore every option available.

Shouldn't have to pay extra just to talk to the people we're supposed to be able to reach for free.

I've applied to Amazon and other warehouses but haven't heard back yet. How long did it take for your brother to get hired?

took about 2 weeks from application to start date. they hire pretty fast when they need people

That's interesting, do you know how to find out about those programs? Would I still be eligible after my benefits end?

Check with WorkSource centers in your area. They have counselors who can explain the training programs and funding options.

Thanks, I never thought about that option. I'll look into what's available in my area.

Good advice, I'll keep filing and maintain my job search log just in case.

Exactly right. If Extended Benefits get triggered later, you'll need that continuous filing history to qualify.

Thanks for the encouragement, some days it feels hopeless but I'm trying to stay positive.

Yeah the job search requirements are ridiculous when there aren't enough jobs that pay living wages.

The system has problems but the job search requirements do help some people stay focused on finding work.

That's a good tip, I'll make sure to ask about all available options when I talk to them.

I'll look into that too. Every little bit helps at this point.

I've been mostly searching locally but you're right, I should expand my radius.

Good to hear another success story with it. I'm definitely going to try it.

I'm registered but haven't used their other services much. I should probably schedule an appointment with a counselor.

Thanks for sharing that. It helps to hear from people who made it through similar situations.

Yeah networking is huge. Tell everyone you know that you're looking - you never know where opportunities will come from.