Can you claim unemployment while on maternity leave in Washington state?

Unfortunately you can't get regular unemployment benefits while on maternity leave in Washington. To qualify for UI benefits you have to be able and available for work, and being on maternity leave means you're not available. However, Washington does have Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) which might be what you're looking for - it's separate from unemployment but provides partial wage replacement.

Wait I'm confused - I thought if you get laid off while pregnant you could still file for unemployment? Or is that different from taking maternity leave?

I went through this exact situation last year. The key thing is the 'able and available' requirement for unemployment. When you're on maternity leave, you're not available for work so you don't qualify for UI benefits. But definitely look into Washington's PFML program - I got benefits through that instead. You have to apply before your leave starts though.

This is so frustrating - I called Washington ESD like 15 times trying to get through to someone who could explain this stuff to me when I was pregnant. Finally used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to an actual agent who explained the difference between UI and PFML. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Saved me hours of calling!

Just want to add that even though you can't get unemployment during maternity leave, you should still report any work you do during that time if you end up filing for UI later. Washington ESD is pretty strict about disclosure requirements.

The whole system is so confusing. Why can't they just have one program that covers all situations when you can't work?? Having UI separate from PFML separate from everything else makes no sense.

Make sure you understand the difference between voluntary and involuntary separation too. If you quit to have your baby, that's voluntary and you definitely won't qualify for UI. But if your employer terminates you because of your pregnancy, that could be different (and probably illegal).

Been there! One thing to keep in mind is that PFML has a waiting period before benefits start, so plan accordingly. Also you need to have worked a certain number of hours to qualify, but if you've been full time for 2 years you should be fine.

Another option to consider is if your employer offers short term disability insurance. Sometimes that can provide some income during maternity leave even if UI doesn't apply.

ugh the whole maternity leave situation in this country is such a mess. At least Washington has PFML now which is better than a lot of states. Definitely apply as soon as you can though - don't wait until the last minute like I did!

One more thing - if you do end up needing to file for unemployment after your maternity leave ends (like if you can't return to work for some reason), make sure you're actually ready to start job searching before you file. Washington ESD requires active job search activities for UI claims.

Just to echo what others have said - PFML is definitely the way to go for maternity leave, not unemployment. I used that service someone mentioned earlier (Claimyr) to get through to Washington ESD when I had questions about both programs and it was super helpful. The agent explained everything clearly.

Document everything! Whatever program you end up using, keep records of all your applications, communications, medical forms, etc. Makes everything easier if there are any issues later.

Congratulations on your pregnancy! Hope everything works out with the leave situation. The PFML program really is a game changer compared to what was available before.

Last tip - if you're planning to use Claimyr or try calling Washington ESD directly, Tuesday through Thursday mornings seem to be the best times to get through. Avoid Mondays and Fridays if possible!

I went through this same situation about 3 years ago and can confirm everything others have said about PFML being the right program, not unemployment. One thing I'd add is to start gathering your documentation early - you'll need medical certification from your doctor and employment verification from HR. Also, if you're planning to take leave before the baby arrives (like if you have complications), that can also qualify for PFML under the medical leave portion. The whole process took about 2-3 weeks from application to first payment for me, so definitely don't wait until the last minute to apply!