Can I collect Washington ESD unemployment on maternity leave - confused about eligibility

Thank you! I didn't realize these were completely separate programs. Do I apply for PFML through the same website as unemployment?

No, PFML has its own application system. You'll want to go to paidleave.wa.gov to apply. It's administered by ESD but it's a different program entirely.

90% sounds amazing! Is there a waiting period or can I start benefits right when I go on leave?

There's a one week waiting period but you can apply up to 30 days before your leave starts. Definitely don't wait until after the baby is born to apply!

This is confusing me more. What if my employer lays me off right before my maternity leave? Would I qualify for both programs?

If you're laid off while pregnant but still able to work, you'd qualify for unemployment. Once you give birth and are medically unable to work, you'd switch to PFML. You can't collect both simultaneously though.

Thanks for the tip! The phone system is so frustrating. Did you end up getting answers about maternity leave from them?

Yes, the agent I spoke with explained that PFML and UI are totally separate systems with different eligibility rules. Much clearer than trying to figure it out from the website alone.

That would fall under disability benefits or potentially PFML if it was after the program started in 2020. Regular unemployment requires you to be actively seeking work, which you can't do if you're on medical bed rest.

oh ok that makes sense. this stuff is so complicated!

You need to have worked at least 820 hours in the past year and paid into the PFML system through payroll deductions. Most employees have been paying into it since 2019, so you should be covered if you've been working steadily.

Perfect, I definitely meet those requirements. This has been so helpful, thank you everyone!

What kind of medical documentation do they need for maternity leave? Just a note from your doctor?

Your doctor needs to fill out a medical certification form. It's pretty straightforward but they need specific dates and details about your inability to work.

Yes! PFML covers both medical leave (for recovery from childbirth) and family leave (for bonding with your new baby). You can take up to 12 weeks total per year for family reasons.

That's awesome. Washington really got this right compared to other states with no family leave programs.

My employer doesn't offer any paid maternity leave at all, so I should be good on that front.

Then you're all set! Just make sure to apply early so there's no gap in your income when you go on leave.

The confusion is understandable since ESD administers both programs. But they really are completely different - UI is for people who lose their jobs, PFML is for people who need time off for medical or family reasons.

yeah that helps clarify it. thanks!

How much does that service cost? I'm always suspicious of third-party services for government benefits.

It's pretty reasonable for what it does - basically just helps you navigate the phone system to reach an actual agent. I was spending so much time on hold that it was worth it for me.

Good point. I'm glad I asked here first before trying to file with the wrong program.

Exactly! Better to get it right the first time than deal with appeals and corrections later.

That's reassuring! The unemployment website is so intimidating with all the different sections and requirements.

Yeah, the PFML site is much more straightforward. They walk you through step by step.

Yes! Fathers can use PFML for bonding leave with a new baby. Both parents are eligible for family leave benefits, though they can't both take leave simultaneously unless there are special circumstances.

that's great to know. my wife and i were wondering about that for when our baby comes.

That's smart advice. I'll put it on my calendar to apply in December for my January due date.

Perfect! And don't stress if the baby comes early - you can still get benefits even if you didn't complete the full application process beforehand.

Good to know! Should I save up extra money to cover that gap period?

Definitely a good idea if you can. Plan for at least 2-3 weeks without income while the application processes, just to be safe.

Agreed! I'm so glad I asked here instead of just guessing. Everyone's been really helpful.

The key is understanding that unemployment is for job loss, PFML is for family/medical leave. Two totally different situations and programs.

My company offers 2 weeks paid leave that supplements the state benefits. Makes a big difference!

That's awesome! Even if it's just partial pay, every bit helps when you're not working.

Ha! Pregnancy brain is real. I'll definitely keep that option in mind if I need to talk to someone directly.

I used Claimyr for a different issue and it really does work. Saved me probably 3-4 hours of being on hold.

Perfect summary! Thank you so much everyone. I feel so much more confident about my options now.

You're welcome! Good luck with everything and congratulations on the upcoming baby!