What happens if your Washington ESD unemployment benefits run out - options?

That's good to know! Do you know what the current unemployment rate needs to be for EB to be available? I haven't gotten any notices about it yet.

The state unemployment rate has to hit certain triggers. Right now I think Washington is still offering EB but it changes based on economic conditions. You should get a notice about 2 weeks before your regular benefits end.

I hadn't thought about retraining programs. Are those through Washington ESD or a separate agency?

WorkSource Washington coordinates with Washington ESD but they're technically separate. You can find local WorkSource offices on their website. They have job search assistance and training programs that might be funded.

How much does that cost? I'm already struggling financially and can't afford expensive services right now.

It's actually pretty reasonable considering the stress it saves you. Way better than spending days trying to get through on your own. The peace of mind alone was worth it for me.

I've heard of Claimyr but never tried it. Did they actually help you understand your benefit options or just get you connected?

They got me connected to an actual Washington ESD agent who walked me through all my options when my benefits were about to exhaust. Much better than trying to figure it out from the website.

totally agree!! the website is so confusing and the phone lines are always busy

That's exactly what I'm worried about. I don't want to just fall off a cliff when my benefits end without knowing what's available.

So if my regular WBA was $650, my EB would be $325? That's a pretty big drop but better than nothing I guess.

Actually no - EB pays the same amount as your regular UI. I was confusing it with another program. You'd still get your full $650 if you qualify for EB.

Wait I thought EB was reduced benefits? I'm getting close to exhausting mine too and need to know what to expect.

I appreciate that info. I've been too proud to look into food assistance but I might need to swallow my pride if my benefits end.

Nothing wrong with getting help when you need it! These programs exist for exactly this kind of situation.

TAA is a separate federal program with its own requirements. You'd need to prove your job loss was trade-related and your employer would need to have filed a TAA petition. It's pretty specific circumstances.

Ah okay, probably doesn't apply to most people then. Just wanted to mention it in case someone's situation fits.

Good point! I definitely don't want to mess up any potential eligibility by stopping too early.

Yes! And make sure your job search activities are documented. The requirements don't change just because you're transitioning between benefit types.

That seems to be coming up a lot in this thread. Might be worth looking into if I can't get clear answers through the normal channels.

I was skeptical about paying for something like that but honestly the time and stress it saved was worth every penny.

I do have a small 401k but I was hoping to avoid touching it. Good to know it's an option though if things get really desperate.

Just be careful with the penalties and taxes on early withdrawal. Sometimes a 401k loan is better than a withdrawal if your plan allows it.

That's reassuring! Do you know how they calculate eligibility? Is it just based on having received regular UI or are there other requirements?

Same requirements as regular UI basically. You need to have sufficient wage credits and be able, available, and actively seeking work. The job search requirements stay the same.

That's what I'm worried about! I don't want to be left guessing about what's available.

That's why it's good to be proactive and contact Washington ESD before your benefits actually run out. Don't wait for them to contact you.

That sounds much better than what some other people experienced! Hoping mine goes that smoothly.

I think it depends on how busy Washington ESD is at the time. During peak periods the notices might be delayed.

That's actually a really good idea. I've been thinking about getting some additional certifications in my field anyway.

Yes! And some training programs actually extend your benefit eligibility while you're in school. Worth checking out for sure.

Seems like a lot of people have had good experiences with that. I might give it a try if I can't get through to Washington ESD on my own.

The peace of mind alone is worth it when you're stressed about your benefits running out.

So potentially up to 39 weeks total if I qualify for everything? That would give me more time to find something.

Right, but remember that EB isn't guaranteed - it depends on the state's unemployment rate staying high enough to trigger the program.