Bottom line advice: get professional guidance before making any decisions. This isn't something to figure out through trial and error because the financial consequences of getting it wrong are too high.

I've been following this discussion and wanted to add that Washington State also has Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) which might be relevant to your situation. It's different from both unemployment and disability - it's for when you can't work due to a serious health condition but may return to work later. You might want to look into whether your back condition qualifies for PFML benefits instead of or in addition to the other options you're considering. The eligibility requirements and how it interacts with other benefits could be worth exploring.

One last thing to be aware of: PFML and unemployment have different impacts on your employer. PFML claims don't raise your employer's tax rates like unemployment claims do. So that's another reason to go the PFML route - less potential blowback when you're ready to return to work.

Thank you everyone for all this detailed information! This thread has been incredibly helpful. I had no idea these were such different programs with different requirements and benefits. Based on what you've all shared, I'm definitely going to pursue PFML instead of UI. I'll schedule a meeting with HR tomorrow to discuss taking a formal medical leave of absence and start the PFML application process through paidleave.wa.gov. It's reassuring to know that my position should be protected since we're a larger company. One follow-up question - does anyone know roughly how long the PFML approval process typically takes? I want to make sure I time everything correctly with my doctor's recommended start date for the leave.

Try calling right at 8am when they open. I got through twice that way, but it still took 45 minutes on hold each time.

I've been dealing with Washington ESD for months and can confirm they almost never call back unless it's legally required like for hearings or mandatory interviews. The callback feature through their phone system is essentially broken - I've requested callbacks dozens of times and never received one. Your best strategy is to keep calling persistently, especially right when they open at 8am or try mid-afternoon around 2-3pm when some people give up. Also make sure you continue filing your weekly claims even during adjudication - that's crucial to keep your claim active. The waiting is brutal but eventually you'll get through if you're persistent enough.

Last tip - if you're planning to use Claimyr or try calling Washington ESD directly, Tuesday through Thursday mornings seem to be the best times to get through. Avoid Mondays and Fridays if possible!

I went through this same situation about 3 years ago and can confirm everything others have said about PFML being the right program, not unemployment. One thing I'd add is to start gathering your documentation early - you'll need medical certification from your doctor and employment verification from HR. Also, if you're planning to take leave before the baby arrives (like if you have complications), that can also qualify for PFML under the medical leave portion. The whole process took about 2-3 weeks from application to first payment for me, so definitely don't wait until the last minute to apply!

Update: I went ahead with the password reset following everyone's advice here. Cleared my cache first, made sure I was on the official site, and created a password that met all their requirements. The process went smoothly and I was able to log back in without any issues! Thanks everyone for your help!

Glad to hear everything worked out smoothly for you! Your experience will definitely help other members who might be hesitant about doing the password reset. It's always nerve-wracking when these security prompts come up at critical times, but it sounds like following the proper precautions (clearing cache, verifying the official site, meeting password requirements) really makes the difference. Thanks for coming back to update us with the positive outcome!