Can I get Washington ESD unemployment benefits if I'm pregnant?

That's such a relief to hear! I was so worried they'd automatically deny me. Do I need to mention the pregnancy when I file my initial claim?

You don't need to volunteer information about your pregnancy, but you must answer all questions honestly. If they specifically ask about any conditions that might affect your ability to work, you should be truthful.

How did you handle job interviews while visibly pregnant? I'm worried employers will discriminate even though I know they're not supposed to.

It's definitely challenging, but remember that pregnancy discrimination in hiring is illegal. I was honest about my situation when it was obvious, and I did find employers who were understanding. Just focus on your qualifications.

This is exactly right. I had a friend who collected unemployment while pregnant, but she had to stop claiming benefits when her doctor put her on bed rest because she was no longer 'able' to work.

That makes sense. So as long as I can physically work and I'm looking for jobs, I should be fine to collect benefits until I actually give birth or have complications.

Thanks for the tip! I haven't tried calling yet but I've heard the wait times are brutal. How much does something like that cost?

I don't remember the exact price, but it was totally worth it to get my questions answered quickly instead of wasting entire days trying to get through on my own.

Right?? It's stressful enough being pregnant and unemployed without having to navigate all these bureaucratic rules.

I know it seems overwhelming, but the basic rule is really straightforward: if you can work and you're looking for work, you're eligible. Pregnancy doesn't change that fundamental requirement.

Do online applications count toward the job search requirement? I'm thinking that might be easier than going to in-person interviews right now.

Yes, online applications definitely count! You just need to keep good records of what positions you applied for, when, and through what method. The WorkSourceWA website is also a good resource for finding job postings.

That's strange - routine medical appointments shouldn't affect your eligibility as long as you're still available for full-time work. You might have gotten someone who didn't understand the rules properly.

Maybe I should have appealed their decision. At the time I was too stressed to fight it, but looking back I think they were wrong.

Oh that's good to know! I hadn't even thought about what happens after the baby comes. Is that through Washington ESD too or a different agency?

Paid family leave is through the same system but it's a separate program. You'd apply for that when you're actually ready to take time off for bonding with your baby.

You're absolutely right. I was so worried about whether I'd be eligible that I almost waited to apply. I'm going to file this weekend.

Good plan! And remember, even if there are any issues with your claim, you can always appeal their decision. Better to apply and work through any problems than to not apply at all.

I'm sorry you had that experience, but it's not typical. Most pregnant women who meet the standard eligibility requirements don't have issues getting approved for unemployment benefits.

Maybe you got lucky but my experience was a nightmare. They questioned everything about my availability and made me jump through hoops.

Good to know there are options if I need to speak with someone. Hopefully I won't need it but it's reassuring to know it exists.

Exactly - better to know about it and not need it than to be stuck trying to get through for days if you do have questions about your claim.

Thanks for the reminder! I wasn't planning to do any side work but it's good to know the rules if something comes up.

That's encouraging! It sounds like as long as you're honest about your situation and follow the rules, it should work out fine.

That makes sense. I work in marketing so most of the jobs I'd be applying for are desk jobs anyway, but I'll keep that in mind as I get further along.

Perfect, that should make things easier for you. Office jobs are usually much more accommodating for pregnant employees anyway.

Yeah, pregnancy status is protected information. They can only ask about your current ability to work, not your future plans for having children.

That's a really important point. I'll make sure to communicate with them if anything changes with my ability to work.

Exactly - honesty and communication are key. As long as you're upfront about any changes in your situation, you should be fine.

Thank you so much everyone! This thread has been incredibly helpful. I feel much more confident about applying for benefits now.

You've got this! It's definitely manageable, and having that financial support while you look for work will make a huge difference.

Thanks! I'll definitely keep that in mind if I need to speak with someone directly about my claim.