random question but did u use all 16 weeks of PFML at once? i thought the max was 12 weeks? just curious cause ill need to do this soon myself

I went through something very similar in 2023 when my father needed extended care after his heart surgery. Here's what I learned: You CAN transition from PFML to unemployment, but timing and how you frame your availability is crucial. When you file, be very specific that you're available for part-time work (at least 20 hours/week is what they typically look for) and can work around your caregiving schedule. Since your employer is ending the relationship due to inability to accommodate continued leave, that should qualify as a valid separation. The key is being honest but strategic - you're not unavailable for work, you just have scheduling constraints. Also, keep detailed records of your job search efforts and consider reaching out to WorkSource about accommodations for caregivers. The transition can work, but expect some back-and-forth with ESD initially. Don't get discouraged if there are delays or initial questions about your availability!

Congrats and good luck with the new job! You're handling this the right way by asking questions and being proactive about stopping benefits properly.

Great advice from everyone here! I went through this exact same process last year and can confirm - just stop filing your weekly claims and you're all set. One additional tip: keep a record of your last claim date and the reason you stopped (new employment) in case you ever need to reference it later. Washington ESD's system will show your claim as inactive, but having your own records never hurts. Best of luck with the new position!

Final update from the OP: My claim was approved! I'm now collecting both Social Security ($1,247/month) and unemployment ($467/week). No issues whatsoever. Thanks everyone for the advice and reassurance!

This is such valuable information! I'm 62 and was just laid off from my manufacturing job after 15 years. I've been collecting Social Security early retirement for about 4 months now and was really worried that it would disqualify me from unemployment benefits. Reading through everyone's experiences here gives me confidence to file my claim. It's reassuring to know that Washington state treats these as separate benefits and that so many people have successfully collected both. Thanks to everyone who shared their stories - it really helps those of us navigating this for the first time!

I went through something similar last year. The appeal process was stressful but I ultimately won. Make sure you're keeping detailed records of everything right now - save emails, texts, and write down your recollection of conversations while they're fresh. In my hearing, the judge asked very detailed questions about dates and times. Also, I was able to get a former coworker to provide a statement confirming the company handbook policy, which really helped my case. Do you have anyone who could corroborate your understanding of the policy?

I'm new to this whole unemployment appeal process but your situation sounds really unfair. From what I'm reading here, it seems like you have a strong case since they didn't follow their own written policy. I'm dealing with my own ESD issues (different reasons) and it's so frustrating how employers can just change their story after the fact. The advice about citing that specific regulation (WAC 192-150-200) sounds really smart. I hope you get this resolved quickly - the stress of not knowing when benefits might come through is awful. Good luck with your appeal!

Thanks everyone for all the helpful information. I feel much more prepared to tackle this now. I'm going to gather my medical documentation and give it a shot. If I can't get through to Washington ESD on my own, I'll try that Claimyr service someone mentioned.

I went through a similar situation last year and wanted to share what I learned. The key is understanding that Washington ESD has specific provisions for people with disabilities who can work within restrictions. When I applied, I made sure to emphasize that I was "able and available for suitable work" rather than focusing on my limitations. I provided a detailed letter from my doctor outlining exactly what I could do (hours per week, physical restrictions, etc.) rather than just listing what I couldn't do. The process took about 8 weeks total, including an initial denial and successful appeal. During the appeal, I had a phone hearing where I explained how my medical restrictions didn't prevent me from seeking and accepting appropriate part-time work. The hearing officer was actually quite understanding once I had all my documentation organized. One tip: keep detailed records of every job you apply for and note how each position fits within your medical restrictions. This shows ESD that you're genuinely seeking work, just within your limitations. Also, be prepared to report your unemployment benefits to Social Security - they need to know about all income sources even if it doesn't affect your disability payments.