What happens when you run out of unemployment benefits - Washington ESD options?

Unfortunately there aren't any federal extension programs right now like there were during COVID. Once you exhaust your 26 weeks of regular UI, that's it unless you qualify for a new benefit year by working enough to earn new wages. You'd need to have worked and earned wages after your original claim started to potentially file a new claim.

You might want to look into other assistance programs while you're still receiving benefits. Things like SNAP (food assistance), housing assistance, utility help, etc. Don't wait until your UI runs out to apply for these because there can be waiting periods.

I was in this exact situation last year and had to get creative about reaching Washington ESD to understand all my options. The phone lines are impossible - I probably tried calling 200+ times over two weeks. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually got me through to speak with someone. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Cost me way less than I expected and I was able to talk to an actual Washington ESD representative who explained exactly where I stood with my claim.

depending on your situation you might qualify for training programs that extend your benefits. Washington ESD has some workforce development partnerships but you have to apply before your benefits run out i think

This is exactly why the unemployment system is broken!!! 26 weeks isn't enough when there are no jobs out there. I've been looking for 8 months and still nothing. The whole system needs to be overhauled because people are falling through the cracks left and right.

Have you looked into gig work or temp agencies? I knows it's not ideal but it might help you earn some wages to potentially qualify for a new benefit year down the road. Plus you can still collect partial UI if you work part time and earn under a certain amount.

I went through this same panic last year when my benefits were about to run out. What really helped was getting connected with a case worker at my local WorkSource office. They helped me understand all the programs available and even helped with resume review and job search strategies.

Wait, I thought there were still some federal programs available? My cousin in California said she got extended benefits last year. Are the rules different in Washington?

One thing to keep in mind is that even after your benefits run out, you should still keep filing your weekly claims if you think you might have earned wages that could qualify you for a new benefit year. Sometimes people don't realize they've earned enough from part-time or temporary work.

This thread is making me realize I need to start preparing too. I'm at week 20 and starting to freak out about what happens next. Has anyone had success with the career counseling services through UI?

Don't forget to keep documenting your job search activities even as you get close to running out. You never know if there might be an audit or if you'll need that documentation for other programs.

I hate to be the bearer of bad news but start planning your budget for zero income ASAP. I made the mistake of not preparing financially and it was really rough those first few months after my UI ran out.

Another option might be to look into disability benefits if you have any health conditions that might qualify. It's a long process but could provide some income if you're eligible.

I ended up using that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier when I was trying to get information about my options before my benefits ran out. Actually got through to Washington ESD and they were able to explain some programs I didn't know about. Definitely worth it when you're facing this kind of deadline.

Just want to add that even though it's scary, you're not completely alone in this. There are community resources, food banks, mutual aid groups, etc. Start researching what's available in your area now rather than waiting until you're desperate.