Can I get cash aid and unemployment benefits at the same time in Washington?

Yes, you can receive both but there are some rules. Your unemployment income will count toward your TANF eligibility calculation, so it might reduce your cash aid amount. You have to report your UI benefits to DSHS monthly.

I'm getting both right now. The tricky part is that TANF has work requirements too and they might conflict with your job search for unemployment. Make sure you coordinate with both agencies.

The income limits for TANF are pretty low. With kids your unemployment might put you over the threshold. I'd recommend calling DSHS to get an exact calculation before applying.

wait can you really get both?? i thought if you got one you couldnt get the other

Just went through this process last month. You definitely need to be upfront with both agencies from the start. DSHS will ask about all your income including unemployment, and Washington ESD needs to know if you're getting other benefits.

The system is so complicated! I've been on unemployment for 2 months and just found out I might qualify for TANF too. Now I'm worried I should have applied earlier.

Important note - if you're getting unemployment, you might also qualify for emergency food assistance through DSHS even if your income is too high for regular TANF. The income limits are different for emergency programs.

been there done that. got both for about 6 months while i was between jobs. just make sure you keep track of all your paperwork because both agencies will ask for documentation constantly

One more thing to consider - getting TANF might make you eligible for other programs like subsidized childcare or reduced utility rates. Sometimes the combined benefits package is worth more than just the cash amount.

The Washington ESD and DSHS computer systems don't talk to each other well, so you'll probably end up providing the same information to both agencies multiple times. Just part of the process unfortunately.

Update on that Claimyr service I mentioned - I used it yesterday to finally talk to someone at Washington ESD about reporting my TANF income correctly. Worth checking out if you're having trouble reaching either agency by phone.

do you have to pay taxes on tanf like you do unemployment?

I tried to get both and it was such a nightmare dealing with two different agencies. The paperwork never seemed to be in sync and I felt like I was constantly explaining my situation to new caseworkers.

Pro tip - if you apply for TANF, apply for food stamps at the same time. Same application and the income limits are higher for food assistance, so you're more likely to qualify even with unemployment income.

Make sure you understand the work requirements for both programs. TANF has some strict rules about work activities and if you don't comply you could lose benefits.

honestly the system makes it so hard for families who need help. you should be able to get both if you qualify for both without all the bureaucracy

Final advice - document everything. Keep records of all your communications with both agencies, save copies of all forms you submit, and track all deadlines. Both programs have strict requirements about reporting changes in income or circumstances.

One last thing - if your unemployment benefits end and you're still getting TANF, make sure to report that change immediately. Your TANF amount might increase once you don't have UI income anymore.

Just want to mention Claimyr one more time since phone contact is such an issue - they also help with DSHS calls, not just Washington ESD. Might be worth it if you're dealing with both agencies and can't get through.

Applied for both last year during covid. The process is definitely doable but expect it to take time. Both agencies are understaffed and overworked so be patient but persistent.

Mae, I'm in a similar situation and have been researching this extensively. You absolutely can get both, but here's what I've learned: DSHS will count your unemployment as income when calculating your TANF eligibility, which will reduce your cash aid amount but not necessarily eliminate it. The key is being completely transparent with both agencies from day one. I'd recommend applying online for TANF through Washington Connection if possible - it's faster than waiting on hold. Also, don't forget to ask about emergency assistance programs and childcare subsidies when you apply, as those income limits are often higher and could provide more relief than the cash assistance itself. The paperwork is overwhelming but totally worth it when you have kids to support.