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Quick update - I was able to get through this morning using one of the third-party calling services. My claim that was stuck for 5 weeks is now processing. Sometimes you just need to talk to a human to get things moving.
For what it's worth, I've had better luck with the Spanish language line even though I speak English. Sometimes there's less volume on that line and the agents are bilingual anyway.
Thanks for posting this question. I'm in a similar situation with about 5 weeks left on my claim. It's helpful to know definitively that there aren't extensions available right now, even though it's not the answer I was hoping for.
One last suggestion - if you haven't already, make sure your LinkedIn profile is completely up to date and you're actively networking. Sometimes opportunities come from connections rather than job postings.
Thanks everyone for all this information! I feel much more informed about the process now. I'm going to file my claim and be completely transparent about my SSDI status. Will update this thread with how it goes in case it helps others in similar situations.
One last tip - when you file your weekly claims, make sure you report any SSDI payments you receive that week. Washington ESD needs to know about all income sources to calculate your benefits correctly. It's better to over-report than under-report.
Just want to emphasize what others have said - DO NOT try to claim unemployment while on maternity leave thinking you won't get caught. Washington ESD has ways of verifying employment status and availability, and fraud charges are serious.
Final thought for OP - since you're planning ahead, make sure you understand both the PFML application timeline and requirements. It's great that you're thinking about this now instead of scrambling after the baby arrives!
Isabella Silva
One last thing to consider - if you have any appeals or ongoing issues with your LTD carrier, make sure that's resolved before applying for unemployment. You don't want conflicting claims about your ability to work.
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Dmitry Kuznetsov
•Fortunately my LTD is ending cleanly without any disputes. But that's definitely good advice for others who might have complications.
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Ravi Choudhury
•Yes, consistency is key. Washington ESD will look at all the documentation and any contradictions could delay your claim.
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Freya Andersen
For anyone reading this later, I also recommend checking with your state's vocational rehabilitation services. They often have programs that can help bridge the gap between disability and employment, and they understand the unemployment system well.
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Dmitry Kuznetsov
•Great suggestion! I hadn't thought about vocational rehabilitation services. I'll look into what's available in Washington.
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Omar Farouk
•DVR (Division of Vocational Rehabilitation) in Washington has some great programs. They can sometimes help with job placement too.
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