Can you apply for unemployment after workers comp settlement in Washington state?

That's a relief! Do I need to report the settlement amount when I file my initial claim?

You should report it during the application process, but typically lump sum settlements don't count as weekly income for UI purposes.

Did you have to provide medical clearance or anything like that when you applied?

I had a letter from my doctor stating my work limitations, which helped when they reviewed my claim.

Really? I've been trying to call for days with no luck. How does that service work exactly?

They basically handle the calling process for you and get you connected when an agent is available. Saved me so much frustration.

Interesting, I might have to try that. The phone lines are impossible to get through.

That makes sense. I'm looking for office work now instead of the physical labor I used to do.

Perfect, just document those job search efforts in your work search log each week.

Good question - Washington ESD will look at your earnings in the base period before the injury, not during the workers comp period.

Oh right, I was working full time for 3 years before my injury so hopefully that base period looks good.

No, my case is completely closed. The settlement was final and I'm not getting any ongoing payments.

Then you should be good to go. Just be honest about everything in your application.

I know it's frustrating, but the rules are actually pretty straightforward once you understand them.

Maybe for you but I've been trying to figure this out for weeks!

Good point, I'll start the online application today. Better to find out for sure than keep wondering.

What kind of documentation did they want?

Medical release forms and a detailed description of what kind of work I could do with my restrictions.

Same here - having that doctor's letter really helped clarify things for them.

That's smart advice. I'll make sure my job search is targeted to positions I can actually perform.

How much does it cost though? Is it worth it?

For me it was worth it just to avoid the phone frustration. Check out their video demo to see if it makes sense for your situation.

It was through L&I. Why would that matter?

Probably doesn't, but L&I and ESD are both state agencies so they might have better communication about your case.

Absolutely, I learned that lesson during the workers comp process. Honesty is definitely the best policy.

Right? I was stressed about it too but everyone's advice here makes me feel much better about moving forward.

Don't stress too much - Washington ESD deals with these situations regularly. They understand the difference between workers comp and unemployment.

Good to know that might happen. I'll be prepared to explain everything if they call.

Mine took about 3 weeks, but that included time for them to review my medical documentation.

Mine was delayed because I got sent to adjudication initially, but once that cleared it was processed normally.

Same here! This community is amazing for getting real answers from people who've actually been through it.

Will do! I'm going to file the application this afternoon and see what happens.

Thank you! Feeling much more optimistic after all this great advice.

Agreed, sometimes you just need to talk to someone who knows the system inside and out.