Can I collect unemployment and workers comp at the same time in Washington?

This is actually a really common question and the answer is yes, you can potentially collect both in Washington under certain circumstances. The key is that you have to be able and available for work to get unemployment benefits. If your doctor has cleared you for light duty and you're actively looking for work within your restrictions, you might qualify for UI benefits even while receiving workers comp.

i think you have to choose one or the other, cant get both at same time

You're going to want to call Washington ESD directly about this because your situation has some specific details that matter. The problem is getting through to them - their phone lines are constantly busy. I had a similar situation last year and spent weeks trying to reach someone. Finally used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Worth checking out if you can't get through the normal way.

THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO MAKE IT IMPOSSIBLE TO GET HELP!!! I've been fighting with workers comp AND unemployment for months. They give you different answers every time you call IF you can even get through. It's like they want people to just give up and stop trying to get benefits they're entitled to.

The important thing to understand is that Washington has specific rules about concurrent benefits. You can receive workers compensation and unemployment simultaneously, but there are conditions. Your workers comp payments may reduce your weekly unemployment benefit amount dollar for dollar, or there might be an offset formula. The exact calculation depends on your specific situation.

wait so you can work light duty AND get unemployment? that doesnt make sense to me

Just went through this exact situation 6 months ago. Filed for unemployment while on workers comp and it was approved. The trick is being very clear in your application that you're able and available for work within your medical restrictions. I had to provide documentation from my doctor about what kind of work I could do.

Make sure you understand the job search requirements for unemployment. Even with medical restrictions, you'll still need to be actively looking for work and documenting your job search activities. Keep records of every application you submit and make sure the jobs you're applying for are within your physical capabilities as outlined by your doctor.

One thing to watch out for - if your workers comp case gets settled, that could affect your unemployment eligibility. A lump sum settlement might be counted as income and could impact your benefits. Definitely something to discuss with both agencies before accepting any settlement offers.

had workers comp for my shoulder and got unemployment too. took forever to get approved though because they had to verify everything with L&I. just be patient and keep calling if you dont hear back

The coordination between L&I and Washington ESD can be complex. They have to verify that you're not getting benefits you're not entitled to, but also make sure you're getting all the benefits you are entitled to. It's actually a pretty sophisticated system once you understand how it works, but it can be confusing for claimants.

This whole thread is making me realize how complicated the system is. I'm dealing with a similar situation but wasn't sure if I should even try applying for unemployment. Sounds like it might be worth the hassle.

Remember that unemployment benefits are taxable income, so factor that into your planning. Workers comp payments usually aren't taxable, but unemployment is. You might want to have taxes withheld from your unemployment payments to avoid a big tax bill later.

Just want to echo what others have said about documenting everything. Take photos of any paperwork, keep copies of all medical reports, and save screenshots of your online applications. If there are any issues or appeals needed later, you'll be glad you have all the documentation.

One more tip - if you do get approved for both benefits, make sure you report your workers comp payments accurately on your weekly unemployment claims. Even small mistakes can cause big problems later, including overpayment notices that you'll have to pay back.

For anyone else reading this thread who might be in a similar situation, the key takeaways are: 1) Yes, you can potentially collect both benefits in Washington, 2) You must be able and available for work to get unemployment, 3) Benefits may be offset against each other, 4) Documentation is crucial, and 5) When in doubt, contact the agencies directly for guidance on your specific situation.

Good luck with your application! It's not always easy to navigate these systems but you're asking the right questions and getting good advice here. Hope everything works out for your back injury too.

just curious - did anyone else here use that claimyr thing? seems interesting but want to hear more experiences before trying it

This has been a really informative thread. I learned stuff I didn't know about collecting multiple benefits. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences and knowledge.

Final thought - while it's possible to collect both benefits, every situation is unique. What works for one person might not work for another depending on the specific details of their injury, work restrictions, and employment history. Always verify information with the official agencies rather than relying solely on internet advice, even good advice like what's been shared here.