Can I apply for disability after unemployment runs out in Washington?

That's exactly what I was worried about - the contradiction between being available for work and being disabled. How do they handle that?

They look at when your condition became disabling versus when you were receiving unemployment. If your condition worsened after you started receiving UI, that can explain the timeline.

How long did your disability application take? I'm worried about the gap between when unemployment ends and when disability might start.

Mine took about 8 months total, but I got approved on the first try. Most people get denied first and have to appeal, which can take over a year. That's why starting early is so important.

Good idea about contacting Washington ESD. Have you had any luck getting through to them lately? I've been trying to call for weeks about other issues.

Actually, I found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. They have a system that calls for you and gets you connected. Check out claimyr.com - there's even a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Made my life so much easier.

Oh no, that's scary! Do you know what specifically caused them to make her pay it back?

This can happen if there's evidence you weren't actually able to work during the time you were receiving unemployment. That's why documentation and timeline are so important.

That makes sense. My back problems started before I got laid off, but they've definitely gotten worse since then. Would that complicate things?

It might actually help your case - shows a progression of the condition. Just make sure you have medical records documenting the worsening over time.

Depending on your situation, you might qualify for temporary assistance programs through DSHS while waiting for disability determination. Also look into food assistance and medical coverage.

Thanks, I'll look into DSHS programs. The medical coverage is definitely a concern since I need ongoing treatment.

Good point. I guess I need to keep looking for work I can actually do with my limitations. Construction is definitely out now.

Exactly. Look for office jobs or something that doesn't require heavy lifting. Document your job search efforts but also be realistic about what you can handle.

This is actually bad advice. Being dishonest on your weekly claims can lead to fraud charges and having to pay back all your benefits. It's better to be upfront and work within the system.

easy for you to say when you're not facing months with no income. the system is broken anyway

That's great news! See how much easier it is when you can actually talk to someone who knows the rules? Claimyr really does work.

Good advice from the agent. Make sure you keep detailed records of your job search and any accommodations you need. That documentation could be helpful for both programs.

This is really helpful. Should I get a disability lawyer right away or wait to see if I'm approved first?

Many disability lawyers work on contingency, so it doesn't hurt to consult with one early. They can help you avoid mistakes that might hurt your case.

14 months is a long time to wait! How did you survive financially during that period?

had to move in with family and got help from local food banks. it was rough but better than trying to work when i literally couldnt

So I should only apply for jobs I could realistically do with my back problems? That definitely limits my options.

Exactly. Apply for sedentary or light-duty positions that match your limitations. This shows you're being realistic about your abilities while still meeting unemployment requirements.

That's my biggest fear. What kind of medical evidence is most important?

Objective medical evidence like MRIs, X-rays, lab results, and detailed physician notes documenting your limitations and how they affect your ability to work.

That's exactly my situation - I could work construction when I was laid off but my back has gotten much worse since then.

Perfect. Make sure your doctors document the progression of your condition and how it's affecting your ability to work. That timeline will be crucial for both programs.

Yeah, I know the payments are lower. But if I can't work anyway, at least it's something steady rather than temporary.

The stability is worth it. Plus you get Medicare after 2 years on disability, which helps with medical costs.

That's interesting. Is that through Washington ESD or a different agency?

It's through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR). They help people with disabilities find suitable work. Might be worth exploring before committing to full disability.

Thanks everyone for all the advice. I'm going to start the disability application process while continuing my unemployment claims and job search. At least now I have a plan.

Good luck! Remember to keep detailed records of everything - medical appointments, job applications, conversations with agencies. It'll all be helpful down the road.

Really? I thought disability meant you couldn't work at all.

Nope, there are several work incentive programs that let you try working while keeping your benefits. Something to ask about if you get approved.

I know, it's frustrating. But I have to try something - can't just give up.

The system definitely has flaws, but many people do successfully navigate it. Having good representation and documentation makes a big difference.

Yeah, I used it already and it was great. Finally got to talk to someone who could give me real answers instead of just guessing.

That's the beauty of actually getting through to an agent - they can give you specific guidance for your situation instead of generic advice.