Can you collect Washington ESD unemployment while waiting for social security disability approval?

That makes sense. I can still do desk work and my limitations aren't severe enough yet to prevent all employment. I just want to have the disability application started in case things get worse.

Be really careful about this though. If Washington ESD finds out you claimed you couldn't work on disability forms but said you could work for unemployment, that could be fraud.

How did it work out for you? Did you have any problems with either agency?

No problems at all. My disability was eventually approved and the effective date was after my UI benefits ended. Just make sure your job search activities match your actual abilities.

Did you have to report the disability application to Washington ESD when you filed it?

Thanks for the suggestion! I've been trying to call for weeks but can never get through. I'll look into that service.

I used Claimyr last month when I had issues with my weekly claim. Worked great and saved me hours of trying to get through on my own.

My situation is definitely the second one. I have a degenerative condition that's manageable now but will likely get worse over time.

That's exactly what you need to document clearly with both agencies. Keep detailed records of your current work capacity vs your long-term prognosis.

I understand the frustration, but the programs serve different purposes. UI is for people temporarily out of work, disability is for people who can't work long-term. There has to be some distinction.

yeah but what about people in between? like the original poster who can work now but might not be able to later? seems like they fall through the cracks

That's exactly why it's important to be transparent with both agencies about your situation. Most caseworkers understand these gray areas if you explain clearly.

In Washington, regular UI benefits last up to 26 weeks, though this can vary based on your work history and earnings. Disability decisions often take longer than that.

That's another concern of mine. What happens if my UI runs out before disability is approved and I still can't find suitable work?

There might be other programs available, like state disability or vocational rehabilitation services. Worth looking into all options.

Good point. I've been keeping records of my medical appointments but should probably document my job search activities more carefully too.

Yes! I wish someone had told me this earlier. Having good documentation made everything so much smoother when questions came up.

I worked with DVR (Division of Vocational Rehabilitation) while on UI. They can provide job training and placement services for people with disabilities. Might be worth exploring.

I hadn't thought about vocational rehab. That might be a good option if my current skills become incompatible with my health condition.

That's really helpful advice. I need to be more strategic about which positions I apply to so everything stays consistent.

Exactly. Consistency between your applications is key. Any discrepancies could cause problems with both agencies.

That's encouraging to hear. I'm definitely going to try that service since I really need official guidance on my specific situation.

Same here, Claimyr worked great when I needed to clarify some complex eligibility questions. The agents they connect you with know their stuff.

Oh wow, I didn't know that could happen. That's definitely something I need to ask about when I call Washington ESD.

This is another reason why documentation is so important. You need to show that you were legitimately able to work during the UI period.

The retroactive date issue is real but not automatic. It depends on the specific circumstances and medical evidence for your disability claim.

Glad it's helpful for you too! It's nice to know we're not alone in dealing with this confusing situation.

That's a good suggestion. I've been trying to handle everything myself but professional guidance might be worth it.

Disability attorneys usually work on contingency, so you don't pay unless you win. They know how to handle situations where multiple benefit programs overlap.

This whole thread has been incredibly helpful. I feel much more confident about moving forward with both applications now that I understand the key issues to watch out for.

Good luck with everything! It's a complicated process but definitely manageable if you stay organized and get proper guidance.