What happens when unemployment runs out in Washington ESD - need to know my options

That's a relief! Do you know what the unemployment rate needs to be for EB to trigger? And is there anything I need to do to make sure I get it?

The state unemployment rate needs to be at least 6.5% and 110% of the rate from the same period in the two previous years. Just keep filing your weekly claims and maintain your job search requirements - if EB is available, Washington ESD will automatically enroll you.

Oh no, that sounds awful. Were you able to get extended benefits eventually? I really can't afford to have my benefits just stop.

yeah eventually but it took forever to get answers. the waiting was the worst part not knowing if money was coming or not

Interesting, I've never heard of that. Does it actually work? I hate spending hours on hold just to get disconnected.

Yeah it really does work. They basically call for you and get you connected to a real person at Washington ESD. Way better than the endless busy signals and hold music.

sounds too good to be true but if it works thats amazing. the washington esd phone system is terrible

Wait, so if EB isn't triggered right now, I won't get any extended benefits at all? That's terrifying. I definitely haven't earned enough for a new claim since I've been unemployed.

Unfortunately, that's correct. When regular UI exhausts and there's no EB period, your benefits end. You'd need to look into other assistance programs like Basic Food, TANF, or housing assistance through DSHS.

This is exactly what happened to me 6 months ago. Benefits just stopped and I had to scramble to find other help. The system is broken.

As of right now, Washington is not in an Extended Benefits period. The state unemployment rate would need to be significantly higher to trigger EB. You can check the current status on the Washington ESD website under 'Extended Benefits Information.

Ugh, that's what I was afraid of. So we're basically screwed when our regular UI runs out?

Not necessarily screwed, but you'll need to look into other assistance programs. DSHS has various programs that might help bridge the gap while you continue job searching.

I completely agree. It's like they expect you to just figure it out on your own after 6 months. Some people need more time, especially if they're older or in specialized fields.

The 26 weeks was designed decades ago when the job market was different. Now with lengthy hiring processes and competition, it's not realistic for many people.

Good point about planning ahead. I should probably start looking into SNAP benefits and other assistance now. Do you know if there's a waiting period for those programs?

Basic Food (SNAP) can be processed fairly quickly if you have all your documents ready. TANF has more requirements and longer processing times. Start the applications now rather than waiting until your UI stops.

Yes, wages earned while on UI can count toward a new benefit year as long as you reported them properly on your weekly claims. The wages need to be in covered employment though - some gig work might not qualify depending on how you're classified.

That's good to know. I've been reporting everything but wasn't sure if it would help later. Thanks for clarifying.

I might have to try that. I have so many questions about what happens next and the website isn't clear about my specific situation.

Same here - I was getting different information from different sources and needed to talk to someone official. Claimyr made it actually possible to reach Washington ESD.

exactly! and then they act like its your fault for not finding work fast enough. some industries are just harder to break into

The notice comes with about 2-3 weeks left on your claim. Not much time to figure out alternatives if you haven't planned ahead.

I went from UI to Basic Food and it wasn't too bad. The DSHS application process is different but manageable. There might be a short gap depending on when you apply and when they process it.

Did you apply before your UI ended or after? Trying to time it right so I don't have a gap in assistance.

I applied about 3 weeks before my UI ended. That gave them time to process everything and I only had like a 1-week gap.

Correct - all the pandemic-era programs like PUA, PEUC, and the federal extensions ended in 2021. We're back to the regular UI system with only state Extended Benefits available during high unemployment periods.

Makes sense but it's still a shock when you're expecting more help. Thanks for the clarification.

That's interesting. Do you know if you can start training programs while still collecting UI or do you have to wait until benefits end?

You can often start approved training while still on UI. Check with WorkSource or your local American Job Center - they have counselors who can help you figure out what training programs might be available.

Same! I was so confused before but now I have a better idea of what I need to do. Still scary but at least I can plan ahead.

That's exactly why it's important to share experiences and accurate information. The UI system can be confusing and Washington ESD doesn't always explain things clearly.

I think I'm going to have to try that. I have too many questions and can't afford to guess about what happens next with my benefits.

Yeah definitely worth it when you need actual answers. Way less stressful than the regular calling process.

You're absolutely right. I'm going to start looking into other programs this week instead of waiting. Thanks everyone for all the helpful information!

Good advice. I wish I had started planning earlier when I went through this. Would have saved a lot of stress and scrambling at the last minute.