Can I claim unemployment while on maternity leave - Washington ESD eligibility?

Thanks for the info! I hadn't heard of PFML before. Is that through Washington ESD too or a different agency?

PFML is administered by the Washington State Employment Security Department, but it's a separate program from regular unemployment. You should look into it ASAP since there are timing requirements for applications.

That's exactly what I was worried about. Did you end up finding any other financial assistance options?

I eventually applied for PFML like the other poster mentioned, but I wish I had known about it sooner. The application process took a while.

Thanks for the suggestion! I'll definitely look into that service. I've tried calling Washington ESD a few times but keep getting disconnected.

I used Claimyr too when I had questions about my claim status. It actually worked and saved me hours of calling repeatedly.

Yes, they're completely different programs. Regular unemployment is for people who lost their job and are looking for new work. PFML is specifically for family/medical leave situations like pregnancy, bonding with a new baby, or caring for sick family members.

oh that makes sense. so I should apply for PFML not regular unemployment then?

If you're taking leave for pregnancy/childbirth and plan to return to your job, then yes, PFML would be the appropriate program to look into.

I totally agree! The website has so much information but it's not organized in a way that makes it easy to find what you need for your specific situation.

The key thing to remember is that regular UI is for job loss, PFML is for leave situations, and they have different eligibility requirements. It would be clearer if they separated these programs more obviously on their website.

That's a good point I hadn't considered. My employer seems committed to holding my job but it's good to know I'd have options if something went wrong.

How can I find out if my employer participates? Should I ask HR directly?

Yes, HR should know. You can also check your pay stubs to see if there's a PFML deduction - that would indicate your employer participates in the program.

I definitely plan to take leave and return to work, not quit. But good to know for planning purposes.

There are some exceptions to the quitting rule but they're pretty specific and hard to prove. Taking leave is definitely better if your employer offers it.

That confirms what I was thinking. It sounds like regular unemployment just isn't designed for leave situations.

Exactly. The weekly claim questions make it pretty clear that they expect you to be actively job searching.

How much does Claimyr cost? Is it worth paying for when you're already dealing with lost income from unpaid leave?

I think it's reasonable considering how much time and frustration it saves. Plus if it helps you understand your benefits options correctly, that knowledge is valuable.

Good advice! I'll start researching the PFML application process now rather than waiting until the last minute.

That's a complex situation that would probably require individual review by Washington ESD. I'd recommend calling them to discuss how those benefits might interact.

Another good reason to use Claimyr if you need to call - these kinds of complex questions really need to be answered by an actual agent who can look at your specific circumstances.

That's why I'm glad I asked here first! This thread has been really helpful in understanding the differences.

Agreed, it's always worth asking in forums like this where people share real experiences rather than just trying to decode government websites.

I'll definitely need to have a detailed conversation with HR about how everything works together. Thanks for bringing that up!

I'm so glad this helped you too! It's definitely given me a much clearer direction for what to research and apply for.

Happy to help! The key is understanding which program fits your situation rather than trying to make one program work when it's not designed for your circumstances.

That's encouraging to hear! I was worried there might not be good options for financial support during leave.

I think I will try that service. After this discussion I realize I need to talk to someone who can look at my specific work history and situation.

Thank you! And good luck to you too! It's so helpful to know other people are dealing with the same confusing situation.

These kinds of discussions are exactly why forums like this are valuable - people sharing real experiences and helping each other navigate complex systems.