As another COVID-19 relief bill hangs in the balance, unemployment benefits for as many as 12 million Americans expired Saturday night, the day after Christmas.

In Washington state, nearly 100,000 unemployed workers could lose their federal unemployment benefits known as PUA or Pandemic Unemployment Assistance.

Bryan Fiehler is a classical singer and a conductor. He does a lot of work with local community and church choirs. When the pandemic hit in March, Fiehler said he lost 75 percent of his income.

Like many other gig workers, contractors, or self-employed individuals, he counts on PUA.

It has been a lifeline and helped pay for half of his rent in Seattle, according to Fiehler.

“Every little bit helps,” said Fiehler.

Without it, he’s not sure what’s going to happen.