Washington ESD unemployment runs out and no job - what options do I have?

I already applied for SNAP but it's taking forever to process. Never heard of TANF though, what's that?

TANF is Temporary Assistance for Needy Families - it's cash assistance but has strict work requirements and time limits

That's a good idea, I'll check with my local WorkSource office. Do you know if they help with living expenses during training?

Some programs do provide stipends but it varies. Definitely worth asking about when you visit them.

Wait, why would I need to call Washington ESD if my benefits already ended? Is there something else I should be asking about?

Sometimes there are eligibility issues that weren't caught or you might qualify for a new benefit year if you worked enough after your claim started. Worth checking.

This sounds like an ad. How much does this Claimyr thing cost?

Not an ad, just sharing what worked for me. I was frustrated trying to get answers and this actually got me through to someone who could help.

I've been to a few food banks but didn't know about rental assistance. My rent's due next week and I'm really worried.

Call 211 - they can connect you with local emergency assistance programs. Don't wait until you're evicted to ask for help.

Exactly! It's not like jobs are just sitting there waiting for us. The whole 'unemployment is low' thing doesn't help when you're still unemployed.

I get the frustration but the extended benefits program is based on state unemployment rates, not individual situations. It's an automatic trigger system.

YES! I see the same jobs posted over and over but they want someone with exactly the right experience. It's so frustrating.

And they want you to have 5 years experience for an 'entry level' position. Makes no sense.

I've thought about that but worried it might affect future unemployment claims if the gig work doesn't work out.

As long as you report any earnings properly and it's legitimate work, it shouldn't hurt you. Might actually help by adding to your work history.

I did work part-time for about 3 months while on benefits. How do I know if that's enough for a new claim?

You'd need to meet the minimum earnings requirements. I'd definitely call Washington ESD to ask about this - could be worth thousands if you qualify.

This is exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier - these are the kinds of questions where you really need to talk to an actual agent, not just read the website.

Oh god I didn't even think about that. My coverage is probably going to change now that I have zero income.

Actually zero income might qualify you for better coverage. Definitely update your application ASAP.

I hadn't considered that. Are there apprenticeships for people in their 30s or is it just for young people?

Definitely not just for young people! Lots of career changers in apprenticeship programs. Check with your local building trades council.

It's smart to get your ducks in a row early. Applications for things like SNAP can take weeks to process.

Definitely start early if you can. I wish I had started the process sooner instead of waiting until I was completely out of money.

I mean, the point of unemployment insurance is to provide temporary support while you look for work. It was never meant to be permanent.

26 weeks isn't enough when the job market is this messed up though

Really?? That gives me hope. How much did you qualify for on the new claim?

About 60% of my original weekly amount but still way better than nothing. The agent said my part-time work during the year earned me enough quarters.

See, this is exactly why it's worth getting through to an actual person instead of trying to figure everything out from the website!

Good tip. I already got a shutoff notice for my electric bill so I need to call them today.

Call ASAP. They're usually more willing to work with you if you contact them before the shutoff date.

I'm definitely going to call 211 tomorrow and ask about all these programs. This thread has been more helpful than any government website.

That's what these forums are for! We've all been there and know how confusing it can be to navigate all the different programs.

That's good to know. I was thinking it was all or nothing with unemployment benefits.

Nope! You can work part-time and still collect partial benefits as long as you report your earnings properly.

Good luck! If you have trouble getting through to Washington ESD, remember that Claimyr option I mentioned earlier.

Hope it works out for you. Don't be afraid to ask for help - there are more resources available than most people realize.

Definitely check on that new benefit year possibility. It could be a game changer like it was for me.

Agreed. The official resources just tell you what programs exist but not how to actually navigate them or what to expect.

Exactly. Real people sharing real experiences is way more valuable than generic FAQ pages.

That's a good point. I know there's a big church near me that always has signs about community help programs.

Worth a shot. Many of them can help with utilities, groceries, or even small amounts of cash assistance for emergencies.

Don't wait until the last minute like I did. Start making those calls and applications now while you still have some benefits coming in.

Smart to start planning ahead. Having a month to prepare puts you in a much better position than scrambling after benefits end.