What happens when your Washington ESD unemployment runs out - need help with next steps

When your regular UI benefits exhaust, Washington ESD will automatically check if you qualify for Extended Benefits (EB) or any federal extensions that might be available. You don't need to file a new application - they'll send you a notice if you're eligible. However, EB isn't always available and depends on the state's unemployment rate.

been there, it sucks. when mine ran out last year there were no extensions available so I had to look into other assistance programs like food stamps and housing help

If you can't get through to Washington ESD to ask about extensions, I recently discovered this service called Claimyr that actually gets you connected to agents. They have a website at claimyr.com and there's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Might be worth checking out if you need to speak with someone about your options before your benefits end.

After your regular unemployment benefits exhaust, you have several potential options depending on current programs: 1) Extended Benefits if available, 2) Trade Adjustment Assistance if you lost your job due to trade, 3) Disaster Unemployment if applicable, 4) Retraining programs through WorkSource. You should also look into other assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, and local food banks while job searching.

THIS SYSTEM IS BROKEN! They make you jump through hoops for months then just cut you off when you still can't find work. Meanwhile politicians get their paychecks no problem.

Make sure you're keeping up with your job search requirements even as your benefits near exhaustion. If an extension becomes available, they'll want to see that you've been actively looking for work the whole time.

What if I find a part-time job before my benefits run out? Can I still get partial unemployment while working?

i remember when mine ran out i had to wait like a whole year before i could file again because you need to work a certain amount to establish a new claim

Important note: if your benefits exhaust and no extensions are available, you'll need to earn at least 680 hours of work (about 17 weeks at full-time) before you can file a new unemployment claim in Washington.

Another option if you're having trouble reaching Washington ESD about extensions is using that Claimyr service I mentioned earlier. I used it when I needed clarification about my benefit year ending and got through to an agent in minutes instead of hours.

Check if your county has emergency assistance programs too. Some have rent help or utility assistance for people whose unemployment ran out.

Has anyone tried those WorkSource retraining programs? I keep hearing about them but don't know if they're worth it.

They should just automatically extend everyone's benefits until the job market actually recovers. This whole system of cutting people off is insane.

Thanks everyone for all the information. I'm going to check on Extended Benefits availability and look into those retraining programs. Hopefully something works out before my 3 weeks are up.

Also look into food banks and community resources now while you still have some income. Don't wait until you're completely broke.

the whole thing is a nightmare tbh. just when you think you have some stability they pull the rug out from under you

Final reminder: keep filing your weekly claims right up until your benefits actually exhaust. Missing even one week can affect your eligibility for any extensions that might become available.

hang in there op. ive been where you are and it sucks but you'll figure something out. just dont give up looking

Let us know how it goes! I'm probably going to be in the same situation in a few months so your experience could help others too.

One more thing - if you do get any kind of extension, the job search requirements might be different or more strict. Just something to keep in mind.