What happens when you run out of unemployment money in Washington ESD?

Do I need to file a new application for Extended Benefits or does it happen automatically?

You should receive a notice from Washington ESD with instructions. Usually you need to file a new application, but keep filing your weekly claims in the meantime.

That's a relief to hear! Did you have to meet any additional job search requirements for the extended benefits?

Yes, the job search requirements were actually stricter. I had to document more job contacts per week and attend additional WorkSource meetings.

Interesting, never heard of that service before. Is it legit or just another scam?

It's legitimate - they don't ask for any personal info, just help you get through the phone queue. Saved me hours of redialing.

While it can be frustrating, Washington ESD is required to follow federal guidelines for benefit extensions. The complexity comes from different programs having different eligibility rules.

Still doesn't excuse the lack of clear communication to claimants about what happens next.

Extended Benefits (EB) can provide additional weeks, but it's not guaranteed. It depends on the state's unemployment rate at the time your regular benefits end.

ok that makes sense, guess I should start preparing for the possibility of no extension

That's tough, but at least you have a clear answer now. Have you looked into other assistance programs while you continue job searching?

Yeah, I'm going to apply for SNAP benefits and see what other local resources are available. The job market is still pretty rough in my field.

I actually used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier. Worth every penny to avoid the phone hell.

Might have to try that myself. The regular phone system is absolutely useless.

Good point! A lot of people don't realize that unemployment benefits can be used multiple times if you meet the wage requirements.

How much do you need to earn to qualify for a new claim? Is it the same as the initial requirements?

You need to earn at least your weekly benefit amount times 6 in new wages since your last claim started. So if your WBA was $400, you'd need $2,400 in new earnings.

I understand the frustration, but the system is actually trying to balance providing temporary assistance while encouraging return to work. It's not perfect but it serves an important purpose.

Tell that to someone who's been looking for work for 6 months and still can't find anything in their field.

Hang in there! Have you tried expanding your search to related fields or considering temporary work while you look for something permanent?

Yeah I've been doing gig work on the side but it's not nearly enough to cover my expenses. Might have to take a job outside my field just to survive.

Yes, you can work part-time and still collect partial unemployment benefits. Washington ESD will reduce your weekly benefit amount based on your earnings, but you won't lose everything.

That's good to know! I'll definitely look into that option then.

I totally understand that feeling. The uncertainty is the worst part. At least now I can plan accordingly.

Exactly! Better to know what you're dealing with than to be left guessing.

If you're on Apple Health (Medicaid) through Washington State, that's separate from your unemployment benefits. You might still qualify based on your income level.

oh good I was worried about that too. one less thing to stress about

That's inspiring! What kind of freelance work did you get into?

Graphic design and social media management. Took some online courses while I was on unemployment to build my skills.

True, but that's kind of the point. Extended benefits are meant to be temporary assistance while you make that final push to find employment.

I get it, but when there aren't enough jobs in your field, more applications doesn't necessarily mean better results.

I'm lucky to have family support as backup, but I really don't want to have to use it. Hoping something comes through in the next few weeks.

Fingers crossed for both of us! This whole situation is so stressful.

I tried them after our earlier conversation and finally got through to an agent who answered all my questions about extended benefits. Definitely worth it.

That's great to hear! It's such a relief when you can actually talk to someone who knows what they're talking about.

While there's always room for improvement, the system does provide significant support during job transitions. Extended benefits aren't guaranteed because they're meant to be triggered during periods of high unemployment.

I understand the logic, but it doesn't help people who are stuck in areas with limited job opportunities.

Definitely! This community has been so helpful. Good luck to everyone still looking for work.

Same to you! We'll get through this eventually.

That's really good advice. I wish I had started looking into alternatives sooner.

Yeah, having a plan makes the transition much less stressful, even if it's not ideal.