Have you tried tweeting at Washington ESD? Sometimes social media pressure gets faster responses.

I'm dealing with the exact same frustrating situation! Been trying to reach Washington ESD for weeks about my claim that's been stuck in "pending" status. The phone system is completely broken - either busy signals or getting disconnected after hours on hold. I've tried calling at different times, using the callback request feature, even visited a local WorkSource office but they said they can't directly help with claim issues. It's incredibly stressful when you're depending on these benefits to pay rent and bills. Really considering trying one of those callback services people mentioned here since the free methods aren't working. Has anyone had luck with contacting state representatives about this issue? Seems like the system needs serious attention from higher up.

Final thought - whatever you do, don't leave it blank. I know someone who did that and it delayed their claim for weeks while they sorted it out. Just pick something reasonable and move forward.

I went through this exact same situation a few months ago! Had worked as everything from retail associate to team lead to operations coordinator. I ended up putting my most recent title (operations coordinator) even though I'd only been in that role for 8 months versus 2+ years in retail. My claim went through without any issues. The key thing I learned is that Washington ESD pulls your actual wage data directly from employers, so the occupation dropdown is really just for their internal tracking and job search guidance. Don't stress too much about finding the "perfect" match - just pick the closest option to your most recent role and you'll be fine!

Bottom line - yes you can collect both. Just be honest about all your income sources and you'll be fine. Good luck with your job search!

I went through this same situation last year at 63 after getting laid off from Microsoft. You can definitely collect both - I've been doing it for 14 months now without any issues. The key things to remember: 1) Report your full social security amount on your weekly claims, 2) Keep detailed records of your job search activities (3 per week minimum), and 3) Don't let anyone tell you that collecting social security means you're "retired" - as long as you're actively looking for work, you're eligible. The Washington ESD agents I spoke with were very clear that these are completely separate programs. One tip: when you file your initial claim online, there's a specific section where you'll enter your social security income - don't skip it thinking it doesn't apply. Good luck with your search!

Final thought - document your job search activities really well while you're looking for a loan. Lenders like to see that unemployment is truly temporary and you're actively working toward reemployment. Keep records of applications, interviews, networking activities, etc.

I was in a similar situation last year and ended up getting approved through SoFi for a personal loan while on unemployment. They were one of the few that actually considered my UI benefits as income. The application process was pretty straightforward online and they gave me a decision quickly. Just make sure you have all your Washington ESD documentation ready - they'll want to see proof of your weekly benefit amount and payment history. Also worth noting that having a good credit score really helps with these alternative lenders even when traditional banks won't work with you.

Bottom line - 26 weeks maximum, no extensions currently available, keep job searching and filing weekly claims. Plan accordingly and don't count on benefits lasting longer than that.

Just wanted to add that it's worth checking your remaining benefit balance regularly through your SecureAccess Washington account. I made the mistake of not keeping close track and was surprised when I hit week 24. The online portal shows exactly how many weeks and dollars you have left, which really helps with planning your job search timeline and budget. Also, if you do find temporary or part-time work during your claim period, remember that you still need to report all earnings - even small amounts can affect your weekly benefit calculation.