Can I draw social security and unemployment at the same time in Washington?

That's a relief! Do I need to report my Social Security income when I file my weekly claims?

You should report all income when filing weekly claims, but Social Security retirement benefits typically don't reduce your unemployment benefits in Washington.

How long did it take for your claim to get approved? I'm worried about adjudication delays.

Mine took about 2 weeks, but that was before all the recent staffing issues at Washington ESD.

Is that legit? Sounds too good to be true with how impossible it is to reach anyone at Washington ESD these days.

I was skeptical too but it actually worked. Got connected to an agent in about 20 minutes instead of spending my whole day calling.

Social Security retirement benefits are specifically excluded from the income that reduces unemployment benefits in Washington. It's different from wages or pension income.

Yeah this is correct. I work at a senior center and we get this question a lot. SS retirement and unemployment can be collected together.

What exactly do they look for in the job search logs? I've been applying but haven't gotten any responses.

They want to see genuine job search activities - applications, networking, attending job fairs, etc. Document everything with dates and details.

Social Security Disability (SSDI) is different from Social Security retirement benefits. If you're on disability, you're considered unable to work, which conflicts with unemployment requirements.

Oh that makes sense. So retirement benefits don't mean you're unable to work, just that you're old enough to collect.

How's the job market looking for us older workers? I'm getting worried about ageism.

Not gonna lie, it's tough. But there are companies that value experience. Don't give up.

I registered but haven't done much else. What kind of activities are required?

Usually workshops, career counseling, or skills assessments. Check with your local WorkSource office for specifics.

I looked at that page but it's confusing as hell. Half the links don't work and the information seems outdated.

Yeah their website is pretty bad. That's why calling is usually better if you can get through.

No age limit in Washington. As long as you meet the other eligibility requirements, age alone won't disqualify you.

Good to know! I was worried they'd automatically deny older applicants.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already strapped for cash.

It's reasonable considering the time and frustration it saves. Check out their site for current info - claimyr.com

That's encouraging! Did they ask for any special documentation about your Social Security benefits?

Nope, they just want to know about it when you report income on your weekly claims.

What's different about it? Just the benefit amounts or the rules too?

Both. Higher benefits and more reasonable eligibility requirements. Plus they don't penalize you for things like Social Security.

I don't have a pension, just Social Security. Sounds like I should be fine then.

Yeah, you should be good to go. Social Security retirement is treated differently than most other income sources.

Any tips for making the job search look legitimate? I am trying but it's discouraging.

Keep detailed records, apply to realistic positions, and don't just spam applications. Quality over quantity.

What box did you check wrong? I want to make sure I don't make the same mistake.

There's a question about limitations on your availability. I said yes thinking about my age, but that's not what they meant.

Did you have to wait long to get connected through their service?

First time was about 15 minutes, second time took maybe 30 minutes. Way better than the hours I spent trying to call directly.

Thanks everyone! I feel much more confident about filing now. Going to submit my application this weekend.

Good luck! The worst they can do is say no, but based on what you've described, you should be approved.