Can I get Washington ESD unemployment benefits after my disability payments end?

Thank you! Do I need to bring the doctor's clearance letter when I apply or just mention it in the application?

Keep that doctor's note handy - you might need it if they ask questions during adjudication. Better to have it and not need it than the other way around.

How long did it take for your claim to get approved? I'm hoping it's faster than the horror stories I hear about adjudication delays.

Mine took about 3 weeks but that was because they had to verify my work history from before the disability. The medical clearance part wasn't an issue.

Good point. My disability payments stop completely next month so that shouldn't be an issue, but I'll make sure to report everything accurately.

Perfect. And start your job search activities right away - they'll want to see you're actively looking even while your claim is processing.

I've heard the phone lines are impossible. How does that service work exactly?

They basically handle the calling for you and get you connected to an agent. Saved me probably 20+ hours of being on hold and getting disconnected.

That sounds too good to be true. How much does it cost?

It's worth it compared to losing weeks of benefits while trying to get through on your own. Check their site for details.

That's exactly why you need medical clearance. Disability means you can't work, unemployment means you can work but don't have a job. You can't be on both at the same time.

ohhhh ok that makes sense. so the doctor has to officially say you're good to work again

A phone interview? That sounds intimidating. What kind of questions did they ask?

Nothing too scary - mostly about what kind of work you can do now, any restrictions, and why you're ready to work again. Just be honest about your situation.

I worked for 3 years before going on disability so hopefully that's enough. Is there a minimum amount of time you need to have worked?

In Washington, you need to have earned at least $3,850 in your base period and worked in at least 2 quarters. Three years of work should definitely qualify you.

That's helpful - I wasn't sure how to categorize it since I was on disability when they laid me off.

Yeah, the layoff is what made you unemployed, not the disability. The disability just delayed when you could start looking for work again.

It should state that you're able to work without restrictions, or if there are restrictions, what they are. Washington ESD needs to know you can perform suitable work.

Thanks, I'll make sure to discuss this with my doctor at my next appointment.

Your benefit amount is based on wages from your base period, which is before your disability started. So it should be calculated normally based on your pre-disability earnings.

Oh good, that's a relief. I was worried they'd somehow factor in the disability payments or the gap in employment.

Yes, you need to start your job search activities right away. Keep track of everything in WorkSourceWA.com - that's where Washington ESD checks your job search log.

Got it, I'll set up my WorkSourceWA account before I even file the claim then.

Mine went to adjudication but only took about 2 weeks. They just needed to verify my medical clearance and that I was truly able to work. Having all your documentation ready speeds things up.

Good to know. I'll make sure I have everything organized before I apply.

You can file your claim before your disability ends, but your benefit week can't start until after your disability payments stop. This way you avoid a gap.

Perfect, that's exactly what I wanted to know. Thanks!

I'll look for that checklist. Do you remember where on the site it was?

I think it was in the 'Special Situations' section under applying for benefits. Definitely worth reading through.

You have 30 days from the date on your determination letter to file an appeal. Don't wait - if you disagree with their decision, appeal immediately.

Got it, I'll mark that down. Hopefully it won't come to that but good to know just in case.

Ok I'm convinced. The thought of spending weeks on hold is giving me anxiety.

Yeah, it's worth it just for peace of mind. The agent I talked to was really helpful and walked me through exactly what I needed to do.

No, the job search requirements are the same for everyone. You need to be actively seeking work from day one of your claim.

Fair enough. I guess I should start networking and updating my resume now then.

Same here! I was so worried but now I have a clear plan for next month.

Glad we could help. Good luck with your claim!

Great point. I'll start gathering all my paperwork now so I'm ready.

Smart move. Being prepared makes the whole process smoother.

Absolutely. I'm planning to file as soon as my doctor gives me the final clearance.

Perfect. Hope everything goes smoothly for you!