Can you apply for disability and unemployment at the same time in Washington state?

So they don't automatically disqualify each other? I'm just scared of getting in trouble for filing both.

No automatic disqualification, but you need to be honest about your situation. If your condition gets worse while on UI, you can transition to disability. Just document everything.

How did you handle the weekly claims? Did you mention the disability application?

I was honest about my limitations when I filed my weekly claims. I could work part-time or desk jobs but not my construction job. Washington ESD considered that 'able and available' for suitable work.

Wait, so you can be on unemployment even if you can't do your old job? I thought you had to be ready for any work.

How much does that cost? I'm already struggling financially.

It's worth checking out their website for the details. When you're dealing with both unemployment and disability applications, having someone who can actually reach Washington ESD makes a huge difference.

For fluctuating conditions, focus on what you CAN do. If you're available for part-time work or work-from-home positions, that still counts as able and available for Washington ESD purposes.

ok that makes more sense. i was worried they'd cut me off completely if i mentioned my bad days

Oh no, what happened to them? Did they have to pay everything back?

They had to pay back about $4,000 because they said they were completely unable to work on their disability application but kept filing unemployment claims. The key is being consistent and honest about your actual abilities.

This is exactly why I'm scared to file for both. The system seems designed to trap you.

So I should be completely honest about my limitations on both applications?

Exactly. If you can work 20 hours a week but not 40, or can do office work but not physical labor, say that consistently on both applications.

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. They handle the calling for you so you don't waste your whole day on hold. Really saved me when I needed answers about my claim status.

I'll have to check that out. I can't keep taking entire days off just to sit on hold with Washington ESD.

Wait, so even if I'm honest about everything, I might still owe money back?

It depends on the dates. If Social Security says you were disabled from January but you collected unemployment from February to June, there might be some overlap issues. That's why getting advice from Washington ESD directly is important.

That's encouraging. So as long as I'm genuinely looking for work I can actually do, Washington ESD should be okay with it?

Right, and keep good records of your job search activities. Show that you're looking for positions that match your current abilities.

I feel this so much. It's like they want you to suffer while waiting for approval.

I understand the frustration, but there are ways to navigate the system legally. The key is understanding what each program requires and being consistent.

Yes, that's actually easier than applying for both at once. You can transition from unemployment to partial disability or even full disability if your condition changes. Just document everything and be honest with Washington ESD about your changing situation.

Should I tell Washington ESD that I'm applying for disability or wait until I hear back?

I'd recommend being upfront about it, especially if your ability to work is changing. They appreciate honesty and it protects you from potential overpayment issues later.

There's usually a question about other benefits you've applied for. If not explicitly asked, you should still mention it if it affects your ability to work.

Thanks, I'll look more carefully at the weekly claim questions.

What did the agent tell you about handling both applications?

Basically what others have said here - be consistent, document everything, and make sure you're actually able to do some type of work if you're claiming unemployment benefits. They were really understanding about partial disabilities.

That's a really good idea. Like a diary of good days vs bad days?

Exactly. Note when you feel well enough to work and when you don't. It creates a clear picture of your actual abilities rather than just general statements.

How do you know what counts as substantial gainful activity?

Social Security has specific dollar amounts that change each year. For 2025, I think it's around $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals. Anything above that might affect your disability claim.

That's exactly right. Honesty and consistency are your best protection. Good luck with both applications!

Yes, thank you all so much. This has been incredibly helpful. I feel much more confident about moving forward now.

True, at least you'd have some income coming in during the waiting period.

I'll definitely keep that in mind. Right now I just need to survive while waiting for the disability determination.

Good to know. I've heard most people get denied the first time anyway.

Yeah, it's unfortunately very common. Don't get discouraged if it happens - just keep appealing and documenting everything.

I'm definitely going to try this. I've been putting off calling because I know I'll just sit on hold all day.

Same here. I think I need to speak with someone directly about my situation rather than just guessing based on general information.