Can I apply for SSDI while collecting Washington ESD unemployment benefits?

So I won't automatically lose my unemployment if I apply for SSDI? That's a relief. Do I need to tell Washington ESD that I'm applying?

You don't have to proactively tell Washington ESD, but if they ask during your weekly claim certification, you should be honest. The key is that you can still be looking for work even if you're also exploring disability options.

Did you have any issues with your weekly claims? I'm worried about the able and available requirement.

I was still looking for work that I could do despite my condition, so I could honestly answer yes to being able and available. The key is being realistic about what type of work you can handle.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr - it's a service that calls Washington ESD for you and gets you connected to an actual person. Check out claimyr.com and they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Saved me so much time and frustration.

Never heard of that but I'm desperate at this point. Does it actually work?

Yeah it worked for me. They handle all the calling and waiting, then connect you when they get an agent. Much better than spending hours on hold yourself.

That's not necessarily true. Many people have partial disabilities or conditions that are getting worse over time. You can be looking for suitable work while also exploring disability options.

I guess but it seems like playing with fire to me. Washington ESD doesn't mess around with overpayments.

How do I avoid that? Should I stop filing for unemployment now just in case?

Don't stop filing unless you're truly unable to work. If you're still able to do some type of work and actively looking, you're entitled to unemployment benefits. The overpayment issue only happens if there's an overlap where you're found disabled for the same period you claimed unemployment.

Mental health conditions are treated the same way as physical disabilities for both programs. The key is still whether you can perform some type of work.

Thanks, that helps. I'm able to work some days but not others, so I think I can still honestly say I'm available for work.

I didn't know about the waiting period. That definitely makes me feel better about continuing to file my weekly claims.

That's terrifying. Was she able to work out a payment plan?

Yeah Washington ESD worked with her on a payment plan, but it was still a huge stress. The whole system is confusing.

Good idea. Do you know if they charge upfront fees?

Most disability attorneys work on contingency - they only get paid if you win your case. Usually 25% of back pay up to a maximum amount.

I'm still able to work certain types of jobs, just not the physical labor I used to do. So I think I can honestly answer the questions.

Thanks for the heads up. I've been seeing multiple doctors so that's going to be a lot of paperwork.

That's exactly why I started using Claimyr. They deal with all the phone hassles and get you connected to someone who can actually answer your questions. Worth checking out if you need to talk to Washington ESD about this kind of complex situation.

Good point. I've been keeping a job search log for unemployment anyway, so I'll add medical stuff to that.

That's a good way to think about it. I am looking for desk jobs instead of the warehouse work I used to do.

Will do. Better to be honest than have problems later.

That makes sense. I still need to pay bills regardless of what happens with SSDI.

I didn't know about the Medicare benefit. That would definitely help with all these doctor visits.

Exactly. I just want to make sure I don't lose my only source of income while waiting for disability to process.

Thanks everyone for all the advice. I think I'll apply for SSDI while continuing my unemployment claims and job search. I'll also look into getting a consultation with a disability attorney.

That sounds like a reasonable plan. Just remember to stay honest on all your forms and certifications. Good luck with everything!

Will do. This forum has been really helpful - glad I found people who understand the struggle.