What happens after 26 weeks of unemployment benefits run out in Washington?

Unfortunately, regular unemployment benefits in Washington state max out at 26 weeks. There's no automatic extension anymore since the federal extended benefits programs ended. However, you might qualify for Extended Benefits (EB) if the state unemployment rate is high enough, but that's rare these days. You'll need to look into other programs like SNAP, housing assistance, or workforce training programs through WorkSource.

been there, it sucks. after my 26 weeks ended last year i had to rely on savings and family help. the job market is brutal right now even with all the 'help wanted' signs everywhere

I went through this exact situation 8 months ago. After my regular UI ended at 26 weeks, I discovered there was actually a way to get help reaching Washington ESD agents to ask about any programs I might have missed. I used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to someone at Washington ESD without sitting on hold for hours. The agent confirmed there weren't any extensions available but also helped me understand some job training programs I could apply for. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

THIS IS EXACTLY WHY THE SYSTEM IS BROKEN!!! They cut off benefits after 26 weeks but expect people to find jobs that don't exist or pay living wages. Meanwhile rent keeps going up and groceries cost twice what they did 3 years ago. How are we supposed to survive???

To clarify some confusion I'm seeing in this thread - Extended Benefits (EB) is still a real program but it's triggered by specific unemployment rate calculations. Right now Washington's rate doesn't meet the federal threshold. However, there are other programs to look into: WorkSource training programs, WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) funding, and various state assistance programs. Don't give up after 26 weeks - there are resources available.

i'm at week 24 right now and already freaking out about this. has anyone looked into the disaster unemployment assistance? i saw something about it but wasn't sure if it applies to regular layoffs

Quick update on my earlier Claimyr recommendation - I actually used it again last month when I had questions about a different program. Still works great for getting through to Washington ESD agents without the usual phone runaround. Just wanted to mention it again since several people seemed interested.

My sister went through this last year. She ended up getting into a medical coding program through WorkSource that was completely paid for. Now she's working from home making decent money. Sometimes losing benefits forces you to consider training for something new.

For what it's worth, I was able to get partial unemployment benefits when I found part-time work after my regular benefits ended. It's not much but every little bit helps. You can still file weekly claims if you're working part-time and earning under a certain amount.

I hate to be the bearer of bad news but I've been job hunting for over a year now. Even with all the training programs and assistance, the job market is really tough. Companies want experience but won't hire you to get experience. It's a vicious cycle.

Check with your local food banks and community assistance programs too. I know it's not income replacement but it can help stretch whatever savings you have left. Many churches and community organizations have emergency assistance funds.

One thing I learned the hard way is to start preparing for the end of benefits around week 20, not week 26. Start exploring all your options early so you're not scrambling at the last minute like I was.

has anyone tried the apprenticeship programs? i saw something about them paying you while you learn but wasn't sure if that's real or just marketing

I used Claimyr too when I was trying to understand my options after regular UI ended. Got connected to someone at Washington ESD who explained that while there aren't extensions right now, they do have programs to help with job search and training. Sometimes just getting accurate information from the source makes all the difference.

Don't forget about unemployment tax implications too. If you received benefits for most of the year, you might owe taxes on them. Start setting aside money for that if you can.

The 26-week cutoff is harsh but it's been that way forever. Focus on what you can control - keep applying, network, consider training programs, maybe even relocate if needed. Sitting around complaining won't pay the bills.

Another option is temporary work through staffing agencies. It's not ideal but it can provide some income while you keep looking for permanent work. Some temp jobs even turn into permanent positions.

Just wanted to add my voice to say hang in there. I know it's scary but you're not alone in this situation. Keep reaching out for help and don't give up on finding something better.

I went through this exact situation about 18 months ago and it was terrifying at first. After my 26 weeks ended, I had to get creative - I started doing gig work (DoorDash, Instacart) to cover immediate expenses while continuing my job search. It's not steady income but it helped bridge the gap. I also applied for emergency rental assistance through my county and got help with utilities through LIHEAP. The key is to apply for multiple forms of assistance at once rather than waiting for one to be approved or denied. It took me about 2 months after benefits ended to find permanent work, but the combination of gig work and assistance programs kept me afloat. Don't be too proud to ask for help - that's what these safety nets are for.