Can I get Washington ESD unemployment and food stamps at the same time?

Yes, you can absolutely apply for both! Unemployment benefits and SNAP (food stamps) are separate programs with different eligibility requirements. Your unemployment payments will count as income when they calculate your SNAP benefits, but it doesn't disqualify you. Many people receive both.

I'm doing both right now. Got laid off 2 months ago and have been getting unemployment while also receiving food stamps. The SNAP office will want to know about your unemployment benefits but like the other person said, it doesn't disqualify you.

Just be prepared for the paperwork. You'll need to apply separately for each program and keep both updated on your status. For Washington ESD unemployment, you can apply online at esd.wa.gov. For SNAP you'll need to contact DSHS.

I had trouble getting through to Washington ESD when I was applying for unemployment. Spent hours on hold and kept getting disconnected. If you run into that problem, I found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to ESD agents. They have a website at claimyr.com and there's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

ugh the whole system is so confusing!! why cant they just have one application for everything instead of making us jump through hoops with different agencies

Make sure you understand the work search requirements for unemployment too. You'll need to be actively looking for work and log your job search activities. This might actually help with both programs since SNAP also has work requirements in some cases.

One thing to watch out for is timing. If you get a lump sum payment from your employer (like vacation payout or severance), that might affect both programs differently. Make sure to report everything accurately.

If you need help navigating the Washington ESD system or have questions about your claim, definitely check out that Claimyr service I mentioned earlier. It's been a lifesaver for getting actual answers from ESD staff instead of just reading confusing website information.

Don't forget that you can also look into other assistance programs while you're at it. There might be utility assistance, rental assistance, or food banks in your area that can help stretch your budget further.

I was worried about the same thing when I lost my job. Turns out you can get both and it really helps during the transition. Just be honest on all your applications and keep good records of everything.

Quick tip: when you file your weekly unemployment claims, make sure you're reporting any odd jobs or side work accurately. SNAP also wants to know about any income changes, so keep both programs updated.

the snap application process is actually pretty straightforward compared to unemployment. you can apply online through washington connection or go to a DSHS office

Something I learned the hard way - make copies of everything! Both programs will ask for documentation and it's easier if you have everything organized from the start.

Another consideration is that if you're approved for both programs, you'll have ongoing reporting requirements for each. Unemployment requires weekly claims and SNAP typically requires monthly or periodic reports depending on your situation.

The good news is that both programs are designed to help people in exactly your situation. Don't feel bad about using them - that's what they're there for!

Just want to add that if you have any issues with your Washington ESD claim getting stuck or need to talk to someone about your specific situation, that Claimyr service mentioned earlier really does work. I was skeptical at first but it got me connected to an ESD agent who cleared up my adjudication issue.

One more thing - if you have kids, make sure to mention that on your SNAP application. Households with children often qualify for higher benefit amounts.

Been there, done that. Having both unemployment and SNAP made a huge difference during my job search. Gave me the breathing room I needed to find something good instead of just taking the first thing available.

Good luck with both applications! The process can seem overwhelming at first but once you get everything set up it becomes routine. You've got this!