What if I run out of unemployment benefits - Washington ESD options?

Thanks for the info! How do I know if Extended Benefits are available? Is that something that shows up automatically in my account?

Washington ESD will notify you if EB is available in your area. It's based on unemployment rates in your region. You don't need to apply separately - it should appear as an option if you qualify.

Did you have a gap between when your old claim ended and the new one started? I'm worried about missing payments.

There was about a week gap while they processed my new application. Make sure you file as soon as your current claim expires to minimize any delay.

Interesting, I've never heard of that service. How does it work exactly? Do they actually get you through to Washington ESD agents?

Yeah, they handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when an agent picks up. Saved me hours of trying to get through the busy signals.

That sounds too good to be true. What's the catch? Do they charge a lot for this service?

Good point, I'll keep filing. Do you know if there are any other assistance programs available if unemployment runs out completely?

You might want to look into SNAP benefits or other social services through DSHS. WorkSource Washington also has job training programs that come with stipends sometimes.

We're in the same boat. It's so stressful not knowing what comes next. Have you looked into whether you qualify for a new claim?

I'm not sure if I worked enough last year to qualify. How do you check that without calling Washington ESD?

You can check your earnings history in your SecureAccess Washington account. Look for the 'View and Maintain Account Information' section.

Why is that important? What happens if you let it lapse?

it can mess up your eligibility for extensions or make it harder to restart benefits later. better safe than sorry

That's good to know. Is the calculation the same as when I first applied?

Yes, they use the same formula based on your highest earning quarter in the base period. If you earned more in recent quarters, your benefit could increase.

I agree! It's already stressful enough being unemployed without having to navigate all these different programs and deadlines.

Right? And trying to get information from Washington ESD is like pulling teeth. Half the time the website doesn't work properly either.

That's a great suggestion. Do you know how to find out what's available in my area?

Try calling 211 or visiting 211.org. They have info on all the local assistance programs available.

Good advice! I should probably start organizing all that paperwork now just in case.

Okay you've convinced me to at least check out their website. The phone situation with Washington ESD is absolutely ridiculous.

Same here, I might try it if I can't figure out my benefit situation online.

Good reminder! I've been keeping records but probably should be more detailed about it.

I know right? You'd think they'd at least send some kind of notification with your options.

They do send notifications, but often it's very generic and doesn't explain all the possibilities clearly. That's why it helps to understand the system ahead of time.

Thanks for the encouragement. It really does help to know other people have gotten through this.

I hadn't thought about retraining. Are those programs hard to get into?

Depends on the program and funding availability. Worth looking into though, especially if you're in a field that's been hit hard.

Definitely worth trying if you need to talk to someone. The regular phone system is basically impossible to get through.

That's reassuring to hear. I'll make sure to check all possibilities before panicking too much.

Several people have mentioned this now. I'll definitely keep filing even if the benefit amount is zero.

Yeah, I figured it was better to prepare ahead of time rather than scramble at the last minute. This thread has been really helpful!

Great advice! I'll start a file with all my unemployment-related paperwork and dates.