Feel free to update this thread once you get some official answers from the agencies. It would be helpful for others in similar situations.

I'm a benefits counselor and wanted to add some clarity to this discussion. The interaction between SSI and unemployment is indeed complex, but it's not impossible. The key is understanding that SSI allows for "attempts to work" under certain programs. If your medical condition has improved enough that a doctor cleared you for part-time work, you should first contact Social Security to discuss work incentive programs like the Ticket to Work program. These programs provide protections while you test your ability to work. Additionally, Washington state has a specific provision allowing people with disabilities to receive unemployment benefits if they can demonstrate they're able and available for work within their limitations. The critical step is getting everything properly documented and coordinated between agencies before applying for anything. Don't let the complexity discourage you - there are legitimate pathways, but they require careful navigation.

I'd recommend checking your online claim status daily. Sometimes they resolve adjudication without even contacting you, especially if they get all the information they need from your employer or their own records. The status will change from "Pending" to either "Paid" or "Processing" once adjudication completes successfully. Also, you mentioned contacting your legislative representative - that's actually one of the most effective ways to get movement on a stuck claim. The fact that ESD responded to you the same day is a very good sign. Your claim has likely been flagged for priority handling now.

I'm going through something similar right now - my claim has been pending for 6 weeks and just got moved to adjudication last week after I contacted my state senator's office. The waiting is absolutely brutal, especially when you're watching your bank account drain. One thing that's helped me stay somewhat sane is setting up account alerts so I know immediately if any payments come through, rather than constantly checking the portal. I also started keeping a detailed log of every call I make to ESD with dates, times, and what they told me - it's helped when speaking with different agents. Hang in there - from what I'm reading here, it sounds like contacting your rep was the right move and should hopefully speed things up. I know it doesn't help with the immediate financial stress, but at least there's movement happening now. Keep us posted on how it goes!

Just wanted to add - while you're waiting, make absolutely sure you're meeting the job search requirements (3 activities per week) and documenting them properly. I've seen people finally get their claim approved only to discover they won't be paid for weeks where their job search documentation wasn't compliant. The ESD job search log in eServices is the safest way to ensure compliance.

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now - my claim has been pending for 4 weeks after an adjudicator interview. Reading through all these responses is both reassuring and terrifying! It sounds like the system is just incredibly backed up. I'm going to try the secure message approach that @Samantha Howard suggested, asking specifically about secondary review queue status. Has anyone had luck with the live chat feature on the ESD website, or is that just as useless as calling? Also @Victoria Stark - hang in there, it sounds like you're doing everything right by continuing to file weekly and keeping up with job search requirements.

Hope this helps OP! The Washington unemployment system has its quirks but once you understand the requirements it's manageable. Just stay on top of your weekly claims and job search activities and you should be fine.

Just to add one more important point - make sure you report ALL income when you file your weekly claims, even small amounts like odd jobs or freelance work. Washington ESD gets income data from multiple sources and if there's a mismatch it can trigger an overpayment situation. I've seen people get hit with huge bills because they forgot to report a few hundred dollars they earned. It's better to be completely transparent from the start. Also, if you're unsure about anything, document your questions and the answers you get from ESD representatives - having a paper trail can really help if there are disputes later.

I totally understand that feeling. Just remember that even if unemployment runs out, it doesn't mean you stop being unemployed or stop deserving support. There are other resources out there.

I'm in a similar situation - about 20 weeks into my claim and starting to worry about what comes next. This thread has been really helpful! I didn't know about continuing to file weekly claims even with a $0 balance. One thing I'd add is to make sure you're networking as much as possible during these last few weeks. I've found that a lot of opportunities come through personal connections rather than just online applications. Also, if you haven't already, consider reaching out to local career centers or libraries - many offer free resume reviews and job search workshops that can give you an edge. Hang in there!