Washington ESD unemployment runs out - if my unemployment runs out can i get an extension

That's what I was afraid of. So there's literally nothing available after regular UI runs out?

Correct, no automatic extensions. You might qualify for other assistance programs through DSHS but unemployment benefits themselves don't extend right now.

How hard was it to get approved for those other programs? I might need to look into that too.

not too bad, you can apply online through washington connection. took about 3 weeks to get approved

Never heard of that service before. Does it actually work for getting through to Washington ESD?

Yeah it worked for me. Way better than sitting on hold for hours or getting disconnected. The agent was able to explain exactly what happens when benefits exhaust.

That sounds too good to be true. How much does something like that cost?

Washington hasn't triggered EB in years. The unemployment rate needs to meet specific thresholds and we're not there currently.

You're right, I should have checked current rates. The trigger mechanisms are pretty strict and Washington's unemployment isn't high enough right now.

I know it's tough but the pandemic programs were always meant to be temporary emergency measures. Regular UI is designed to provide temporary support while you search for work.

temporary support that barely lasts long enough to find anything decent. the job market is still terrible in some areas

I haven't really explored WorkSource much beyond the basic job search requirement. What kind of training programs do they offer?

lots of different stuff - healthcare, tech, trades. depends on what's available in your area. worth checking out their website

Is that through DSHS too? I'm starting to think I need to explore all these other programs before my UI runs out.

Yeah DSHS handles TANF. Definitely worth applying before you're completely out of money if you think you might qualify.

I've only done some part-time gig work since I started collecting. Don't think that's enough to qualify for a new claim.

You're probably right. You need substantial earnings to establish a new benefit year. The minimum is pretty high.

Those extended programs were implemented during specific economic crises. The regular UI system was never meant to provide long-term support.

I get that but 26 weeks often isn't enough time to find decent employment, especially in certain fields or rural areas.

Smart approach. If you need to talk to Washington ESD about your specific situation or timeline, that Claimyr service I mentioned earlier really does work for getting through to agents. Saved me hours of calling.

I might try that. I do want to double-check exactly when my benefits exhaust and make sure I'm not missing anything.

Good point. I've been too proud to look into food banks but I might need to swallow that pride soon.

Nothing wrong with using resources that are there to help. That's what they're for.

Did you apply for everything at once or space it out? I'm worried about being overwhelmed by all the applications.

I did SNAP and Medicaid first since those seemed most urgent, then tackled the others. Most applications ask for similar documentation so you can reuse a lot of the paperwork.

I understand the frustration but the UI system has always been designed as temporary support, not long-term income replacement.

Yeah well maybe the design needs to change with the times. Job searches take way longer now than they did 30 years ago.

My layoff wasn't trade-related but that's good to know for anyone else reading this.

Worth mentioning since a lot of people don't know about TAA programs. They're pretty specific but can be helpful if you qualify.

I know you're right. I've been holding out for something in my field but maybe I need to be less picky.

Sometimes a survival job is necessary while you keep looking for the right opportunity. Nothing wrong with that.

Good point. I should log into my Washington ESD account and double-check the exact balance and remaining weeks.

If you have trouble getting into your account or understanding the information, that's another thing a Washington ESD agent could help clarify. The Claimyr service would help you reach them if the phone lines are giving you trouble.

That's what I'm gathering from everyone's responses. Time to get serious about backup plans.

Exactly. Better to have plans in place and not need them than to be scrambling at the last minute.

Thanks for the encouragement. Some days it feels hopeless but I know I have to keep trying.

It really is just a numbers game sometimes. The right opportunity will come along.

Several people have mentioned that now. Might be worth trying if I need to talk to someone at Washington ESD.

Yeah, when multiple people are recommending the same solution, it's probably worth looking into.

Same here. At least now I know what I'm dealing with and can plan accordingly. Thanks everyone for the honest feedback.

Good luck with whatever comes next. Keep us posted if you find any other resources that might help.