What if your unemployment runs out in Washington ESD - next steps?

Thanks, I didn't know about DSHS programs. Do I need to stop filing weekly claims with Washington ESD once my benefits run out?

Yes, once your benefit year expires you can't file weekly claims anymore. But keep all your job search records in case you need them for a new claim.

How do I know if I can file a new claim? I did work part-time for about 3 months during my current claim period.

You'd need to check if those earnings meet the minimum requirements for a new benefit year. The Washington ESD website has a calculator, but honestly their phone system is so hard to get through to ask questions.

If you're having trouble reaching Washington ESD by phone, I found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to agents. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ and their website is claimyr.com. Saved me hours of calling.

That's good advice. What other assistance did you end up qualifying for?

I got help with my electric bill through LIHEAP and qualified for food assistance. Also found out about some job training programs that actually pay you while you learn new skills.

Extended Benefits (EB) only trigger when unemployment rates hit certain thresholds, and Washington hasn't met those triggers recently. The pandemic-era extensions like PEUC are long gone.

Oh that sucks. So basically once your 26 weeks are up, you're on your own unless you can start a new claim?

Pretty much, unless you qualify for other assistance programs. That's why it's important to use your UI time wisely for job searching and maybe skills training.

I hear you on the frustration, but the regular UI program was never designed to be long-term support. It's meant to bridge you between jobs.

Yeah well bridges are supposed to get you across the gap, not dump you in the middle of the river! Some people need more than 6 months especially if they're older or in specialized fields.

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier - they handle the calling and waiting for you. I was skeptical at first but it actually worked. Way better than spending my whole day trying to get through.

How does that work exactly? Do they charge a lot?

They get you connected to an actual Washington ESD agent who can answer your questions about new claims. Check out their demo video to see how it works - way easier than doing it yourself.

Good point. Should I keep using the same WorkSourceWA account for job searching even after my benefits end?

Yes, definitely keep your WorkSourceWA account active. They have good job search tools and resources even if you're not collecting benefits.

Where would I find information about those programs?

Start with your local WorkSource office. They can tell you about training programs, apprenticeships, and other resources. Some even have emergency assistance funds.

It's not ideal but there are other resources if you know where to look. Don't give up hope.

That's actually not a bad idea. My last company did say they might have openings in the spring. Maybe I should reach out.

Definitely worth a shot. Even if they don't have openings now, staying on their radar might help when something does open up.

We should stay in touch and share what we find out about other programs. This is all new to me.

Good idea. I'll post updates if I learn anything useful about the application process for other assistance.

Thank you! I had no idea that existed. Going to call them tomorrow.

211 is great - they have a website too where you can search for resources by zip code.

I'm definitely going to try it. At this point I need to know for sure whether I can file a new claim or not so I can plan accordingly.

Yeah I've been thinking about that. Pride kind of gets in the way but bills don't care about pride.

Exactly. I ended up in a completely different field and actually like it better than my old job. You never know what doors might open.

While I understand the frustration, the UI system has always been temporary assistance. It's funded by employer taxes and isn't meant to be permanent income replacement.

Right, and those employer taxes are supposed to help workers when they need it most. But 26 weeks in today's job market often isn't enough, especially for older workers or people in specialized fields.

Can you explain the difference? I thought they were the same thing.

Your benefit year is 52 weeks from when you first filed. If you exhaust your 26 weeks of benefits before your benefit year ends, you might be able to file a new claim if you've worked and earned enough. If your benefit year ends, you definitely need to file a new claim to continue receiving benefits.

Good plan. Don't wait until the last minute - some assistance programs can take time to process applications.

Keep us updated on how it goes. Your experience could help other people in similar situations.

Will do. This community has been really helpful during a stressful time.

Good to know. I should probably gather all that paperwork now while I'm thinking about it.

I might try this too. I've been putting off calling Washington ESD because I know it'll take hours.

That's exactly why I started using them. Life's too short to spend entire days on hold with government agencies.

Good reminder. I'll make sure to keep records of everything going forward.