Can I apply for disability and unemployment at the same time Washington ESD?

That makes sense. I can definitely do desk work or light duty stuff, just not the heavy warehouse work I was doing before.

yeah but how do you prove that to them? seems like they'd just deny both claims

Should I mention my work restrictions when I file my initial claim? I don't want to lie but I also don't want to automatically disqualify myself.

Be honest about your limitations but emphasize what you CAN do. Focus on the types of work you're able and available for.

How did you finally reach someone? I've been trying to call for weeks about a different issue and can't get through.

Used a service called Claimyr that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Made the whole process way less stressful.

I'm looking at both options honestly. Not sure which would be better for my situation.

State disability through Washington has different requirements than federal SSDI. You'd need to apply for those separately from unemployment anyway.

I understand the frustration, but the rules exist for a reason. UI is for people temporarily out of work who can return to employment.

temporarily out of work with a bad back that might need surgery... see the problem?

That's encouraging. Did he have to provide medical documentation to Washington ESD about his restrictions?

yeah they asked for a doctors note specifying what kind of work he could and couldn't do

Good point. I should probably start looking at administrative or customer service roles instead of warehouse positions.

exactly! and keep detailed records of your job search activities in case they audit your claim

What did you do differently the second time?

Focused on what I COULD do instead of what I couldn't. Had my doctor write a letter about suitable work accommodations rather than just listing restrictions.

Smart approach. Documentation is everything with Washington ESD.

How long does adjudication usually take for these kinds of cases?

mine took about 6 weeks but I've heard of people waiting months. depends how backed up they are

That makes sense. I'll focus my search on office jobs and remote work opportunities.

dont forget about vocational rehabilitation services too - they might help with retraining for jobs that work with your restrictions

Yeah, I'm worried about that too. How do you handle disclosure during the application process?

I usually wait until after they show interest, then frame it as accommodation needs rather than limitations. Most reasonable employers will work with you.

Definitely don't want to risk that. Better to be upfront and deal with any complications honestly.

Exactly. Honesty might complicate things initially but it protects you in the long run.

They laid me off so I'm not sure if I'd still be eligible for their benefits. I'll have to check my termination paperwork.

sometimes you can still access benefits for a period after termination. definitely worth investigating

Surgery isn't scheduled yet, just a possibility depending on how physical therapy goes. Right now I'm able to work with restrictions.

Then unemployment might be your best bet for now. You can always reassess if your medical situation changes.

Is that service legit? Seems almost too good to be true that they can actually get you through to real people.

Totally legit. They basically handle the waiting and calling back for you. When an agent is available, they connect you. Beats sitting on hold all day.

What finally resolved it for you? Did you have to provide additional documentation?

Had to get a detailed letter from my doctor explaining exactly what I could and couldn't do. Also helped that I had already started applying for appropriate jobs.

Right now the injury is limiting but hopefully not permanent. I'm hoping physical therapy will help avoid surgery altogether.

that's good to hear. sounds like unemployment with work restrictions might be the right path for your situation

That's helpful advice. I can sit, stand for short periods, type, use a computer, drive short distances. Just no lifting over 20 pounds or prolonged standing.

Perfect - that's exactly the kind of detail Washington ESD needs to understand your situation. Sounds like plenty of jobs you could do.

I hadn't thought about that. Where would I apply for vocational rehabilitation?

Washington state has DVR (Division of Vocational Rehabilitation). They help people with disabilities find employment or get retrained.

Thanks everyone for all the advice. I feel much more confident about moving forward with my claim now.

Good luck! Remember to keep detailed records of everything and don't hesitate to ask for clarification if you're unsure about anything.