What happens if you run out of Washington ESD unemployment benefits - need advice

So there's literally nothing else? That's terrifying. I've been looking for work this whole time but the job market is brutal right now.

Check if you qualify for any state assistance programs. Also make sure you've been doing your job search activities correctly because sometimes people get extensions if there were issues with their original claim.

I don't have kids so TANF probably won't work. What do you mean by computation errors? Should I call Washington ESD to verify my remaining weeks?

Yes, definitely verify. Sometimes if you had multiple jobs or worked part-time while claiming, the calculations can get messed up. Better to check now than assume you're out of options.

I actually found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. You can check it out at claimyr.com - they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. It's been a lifesaver for me when I needed to talk to someone about my claim.

Never heard of that but honestly at this point I'll try anything. The regular phone system is completely broken.

Wait, is that legit? Sounds too good to be true. How does it actually work?

That's exactly what I'm afraid of. Moving back with family isn't really an option for me. Did you eventually find work?

took me 3 more months but yeah finally got something. had to take a big pay cut though. keep applying everywhere even if its not ideal

I haven't worked at all since I got laid off, so I don't think that would apply to me. This was my first time ever filing for unemployment.

Even if you worked part-time or did gig work during your claim, that could count toward a new benefit year. The rules are complicated.

That's pretty harsh but unfortunately probably true. The system isn't really designed to help long-term unemployed people.

This is so depressing. I never thought I'd be in this situation and now I feel completely abandoned by the system.

I haven't really looked into that. Do you know what kind of programs they offer and how long they take?

They have everything from short certificates to longer programs. Some are in high-demand fields like healthcare or tech. Worth checking out their website or visiting a WorkSource office.

I did one of their programs a few years ago. It was decent but the income support was way less than unemployment. Better than nothing though.

I think I've been doing it right but honestly the job search log is confusing. I've been applying to jobs and recording them but maybe I should double-check the requirements.

Definitely double-check. The requirements are specific and if you haven't been meeting them, that could be why you're not seeing any extension options.

That gives me some hope. Maybe I should try calling to verify my remaining weeks like someone else suggested. Did it cost a lot to use that service?

It was worth it for me because I was completely stuck otherwise. They focus on getting you connected rather than charging crazy fees. The peace of mind was worth it.

Extended benefits haven't been active in Washington for a while and I doubt they'll turn them back on anytime soon. Better to plan for the worst.

I'll look into DSHS programs but I'm not sure what I'd qualify for. This is all so overwhelming.

At least you're not alone in this. Lots of people are struggling right now. Maybe we should start a support group lol

It helps to know other people are going through the same thing. Makes me feel less like a failure.

Thank you, that's really helpful. I never heard of 211 before. Are these services free?

Yes, most are free or income-based. The 211 operators can connect you with everything available in your area. Don't be too proud to ask for help - that's what these programs are for.

Good to know. So if extended benefits were available, I'd have to take any job offer that comes along?

Pretty much. The definition of 'suitable work' gets broader the longer you're unemployed. But again, extended benefits aren't even available right now in Washington.

I haven't done any work at all since I got laid off. I was worried it would mess up my benefits somehow.

That's actually a common mistake. You can work part-time while on unemployment as long as you report it. It might have helped you build up wages for a new claim.

Great, so I screwed myself by following the rules too strictly. This system makes no sense.

I've been thinking about trying to sell some things but I don't have much of value. Did you find any particular type of work that was flexible?

Food delivery, TaskRabbit type stuff, anything where you can work when opportunities come up. It's not ideal but it keeps money coming in while you look for something permanent.

I've been wondering about that. I get some responses but not many interviews. Maybe my resume needs work.

Definitely worth checking out. Sometimes small changes to how you present your experience can make a big difference in response rates.

Thank you everyone for all the advice. I have a lot to research and think about. This thread has been really helpful even though the situation is scary.

Good luck! Remember that this situation is temporary even though it doesn't feel like it right now. Keep pushing forward.