Can you apply for unemployment while waiting for disability approval in Washington ESD?

Thanks for responding. So I can apply for both at the same time? I'm just worried about contradicting myself somehow.

Yes, legally you can apply for both. The key is being consistent about your work capacity. If you're saying you're totally disabled, that conflicts with being available for work. But if you're saying you can't do your previous job but could do other work, that's different.

How did it work out for you? Did you get approved for both?

I got unemployment for about 8 months while waiting. My disability claim was eventually approved but it took 14 months total. The unemployment helped me survive during that time.

This gives me hope. I'm in a similar situation and was afraid to apply for unemployment because of my pending disability case.

That makes sense. I think I could do desk work or something less physical than my previous job.

Exactly. Being unable to do your previous job because of a disability doesn't mean you're unable to do ANY work. That's a key distinction.

I had the same problem for weeks. Then I found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. They basically handle the calling and waiting for you. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that explains how it works.

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

I was skeptical too but it actually worked. I got through to someone at Washington ESD the same day I used their service. Way better than spending hours on hold.

That's not typically how it works. Disability benefits are usually retroactive, but unemployment is for a different time period. As long as you were honestly able and available for work when you collected unemployment, there shouldn't be an overpayment issue.

ok good to know. i was worried about that

How long did it take to hear back when you applied?

Still waiting! My claim is in adjudication. I think they're reviewing my work history and medical information.

Adjudication can take several weeks, especially if there are any complications. Keep filing your weekly claims even while it's pending.

That's good advice. I think I need to be more specific about what types of work I can and can't do.

Yes, specificity is key. You might be unable to do heavy lifting but able to do office work, for example.

What kind of job searching did he do? I'm worried about applying for jobs I might not be able to handle.

He focused on remote work and desk jobs. The job search log just needs to show you're actively looking for suitable work.

You have to be able and available for work, but that doesn't necessarily mean full-time. Many people work part-time while on unemployment. The key is being available for the work you're seeking.

Oh I see. So as long as you're available for some type of work, you can qualify.

Good point. I'll start keeping better records of everything.

Documentation is super important, especially if you end up needing to appeal anything later.

This is really encouraging. I was so worried about applying for unemployment because of my disability case.

Don't let the disability case stop you from applying for unemployment if you qualify. You need income while you're waiting.

I might need to try that service too. These phone wait times are ridiculous.

It's worth it just to get accurate information instead of guessing about something this important.

So I should report it even if the disability is for a different time period?

Yes, it's better to report it and let them determine if it affects your unemployment benefits. Being transparent prevents problems later.

Exactly. Just be consistent and honest about what you can and can't do.

Good luck with both applications. The waiting is the hardest part but you need income while you're going through the process.

That's a good point. I can't afford to wait potentially years without any income.

Right. These programs exist to help people in exactly your situation. Use them if you qualify.