Can I file for disability while on Washington ESD unemployment benefits?

So would I get in trouble if I apply for both? I'm really worried about losing income while waiting for disability to process.

You won't get in trouble for applying, but you'll likely have to choose one or the other. Most people stop UI when they file for disability.

Oh no, how much did you have to pay back? That's exactly what I'm afraid of.

About $2,800. It was a nightmare dealing with the overpayment notice. I ended up having to set up a payment plan.

Did you try appealing the overpayment? Sometimes they make mistakes on those calculations.

I've tried calling Washington ESD like 20 times but can never get through. The phone just rings and rings or I get hung up on.

Yeah, their phone system is terrible. You might want to try using Claimyr - it's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. Check out claimyr.com, they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

That's exactly the issue. The requirements conflict with each other. You have to be able and available for unemployment, but unable to work for disability.

So basically you have to pick one? That seems unfair for people who get hurt while unemployed.

It is unfair but that's how the system works. I had to stop my UI when I applied for SSDI.

I feel your frustration. The lack of clear guidance is really frustrating when you're dealing with a disability and need income.

Exactly! And meanwhile bills keep coming and you don't know if you'll have any money next month.

So you didn't have to pay anything back? How long did your disability application take?

About 8 months total. And no, no overpayment because I reported the disability approval right away. The key is being transparent with both agencies.

That's different from what happened to me. Maybe it depends on your specific case or which adjudicator you get?

I think I'm talking about SSDI through Social Security. My doctor mentioned that's what I'd probably qualify for.

Okay, so SSDI and unemployment can overlap for a short time, but you'll eventually have to choose. SSDI also takes forever to process.

Did the lawyer help with the unemployment part too or just disability?

just disability but they told him to stop filing unemployment claims once he hired them

That's a really good point. I didn't even think about what happens if I get denied.

Yeah, SSDI has like a 60% denial rate on first applications. Having a backup plan is smart.

This happened to my neighbor. She got denied twice before finally getting approved on the third try. Took almost 2 years total.

But what if the disability gets denied? Then I'd have no income at all while I wait for an appeal.

That's the risk, but overpayment issues with Washington ESD can be really complicated to resolve. It's often not worth the headache.

I wish someone had told me this before I got stuck with that overpayment. The stress was horrible.

I used it last month for a different issue and the agent I talked to was pretty knowledgeable. They should be able to explain the disability overlap rules.

Good to know. I might try that since I can never get through on my own.

Right?? They should have a clear webpage or something explaining exactly what to do in this situation.

They probably do have info buried somewhere on their website, but good luck finding it. Their site is a maze.

For unemployment, you can work part-time as long as you report it and it doesn't exceed certain earnings limits. For SSDI, there are strict rules about substantial gainful activity.

This is getting really complicated. No wonder people get confused about all these rules.

SSDI allows very limited work - I think it's around $1,470/month in 2025. Anything over that can jeopardize your benefits.

That's really good advice. I've been pretty disorganized with my paperwork so far.

Trust me, you'll want everything organized if you end up dealing with overpayments or appeals. Make copies of everything.

I never thought about that. My injury did happen at my last job, but I was already laid off when it got worse.

Might still be worth checking into. Workers' comp can sometimes cover injuries that develop or worsen after you leave the job.

Definitely worth exploring. Workers' comp, unemployment, and SSDI all have different rules and timelines.

That sounds like a solid plan. If you can't get through to Washington ESD on your own, definitely consider using Claimyr to help you connect with an agent who can explain your options.

Good luck with everything. These situations are stressful but you're asking the right questions and getting good advice here.

And remember to document everything! You'll thank yourself later if any issues come up.