Will unemployment be extended in Washington ESD - any updates on benefit extensions?

Yeah I figured the federal stuff was done. What other programs are you thinking of?

There's sometimes training programs that can extend benefits if you qualify. Check WorkSourceWA for approved training that might come with extended UI.

What's the unemployment rate threshold for EB to kick in? I thought Washington had to hit a certain percentage.

Extended Benefits typically trigger when the state's unemployment rate is at least 6.5% and at least 120% of the average rate for the same period in the prior two years. We're not there yet.

Interesting, I've been trying to call Washington ESD for days about this exact question. How much does it cost?

They focus on getting you connected rather than the cost. The main thing is it actually works when you need to talk to someone at Washington ESD about your claim status or options.

I used them too when my claim went into adjudication. Actually got through to a real person who could explain what was happening.

I feel you on that. The job search requirements are no joke either.

right?? three job contacts per week minimum and they actually check now

Good point about disqualifications. I've been careful with my job search logs but you never know.

What kind of disqualifications should we be worried about?

Main ones are not actively seeking work, refusing suitable work, or issues with your separation from your last employer. Keep detailed records of your job search activities.

What kind of programs do they typically have?

Training programs, job placement assistance, sometimes emergency assistance programs. Varies by location but worth asking.

Same here. What industry are you in?

Retail management. You?

Tech support. Lots of layoffs in that sector.

When would the legislature next be in session to consider something like that?

They're in regular session now actually, but unemployment extensions are politically tough sells unless there's a crisis.

That's actually not a bad idea. Might be worth a shot.

My state rep's office was actually pretty helpful when I had a problem with my claim getting stuck in adjudication.

Good advice. Also make sure your job search activities are up to date in case they audit your claim.

Exactly. Keep those job search logs detailed and current.

Did they tell you about any programs you didn't know about?

Actually yes, there was a retraining program I qualified for that I had no idea existed. The agent walked me through the application process.

I should probably look into that. Do you know where to apply for those programs?

DSHS website has info on food assistance and other programs. 211 is also a good resource for local assistance programs.

Can you explain the difference? I'm confused about this.

Your benefit year is 52 weeks from when you first filed. You can exhaust your 26 weeks of benefits before the year ends, or your year can end before you use all 26 weeks. Different scenarios have different options.

Where do you get the best info on what's happening in the legislature?

TVW has live coverage and the legislature's website posts bill status. Also local news sometimes covers employment-related legislation.

This is so important. I know someone who got disqualified right at the end because they got sloppy with their job search log.

How often do they actually audit the job search requirements?

It's random but they definitely do it. Better to be safe and keep detailed records.

Not in a union but that's good advice for people who are.

What kind of training programs were they?

Healthcare and tech mostly. The agent said they can sometimes extend benefits if you're in an approved training program.

Good reminder. I hardly ever check my account unless I'm filing my weekly claim.

Yeah, they put notices in there about benefit year endings, potential eligibility for other programs, etc.

Thanks for the summary. Sounds like I need to start preparing for benefits to end and maybe look into those training programs.

That's probably the smart move. Better to have a plan than hope for an extension that might not come.