Can you collect unemployment after having a baby in Washington?

Congratulations on your baby! Unfortunately, to qualify for unemployment in Washington you have to be able and available for work immediately. If your doctor says you need 12 weeks recovery, you wouldn't meet that requirement right now. You might want to look into other options like temporary disability or see if you qualify for any state family programs.

I went through this exact situation last year! You're right that you can't collect regular UI benefits while you're medically unable to work. BUT once your doctor clears you to return to work, you can definitely file if you're having trouble finding a new job. I filed about 3 months postpartum when I was ready to work again but my old position had been filled.

There's actually a specific process for this situation. You need to wait until you're medically cleared to work, then you can file your claim. The key is documenting that you're physically able to work and have childcare arrangements. Washington ESD will want to see that you're actively job searching too. When you file, make sure to mention your previous work history and that you're ready to accept suitable employment.

ugh the whole system is so frustrating when you're dealing with major life changes! I spent weeks trying to get through to someone at Washington ESD when I had questions about my claim after my maternity leave ended. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually got me connected to an agent. They have this demo video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Honestly saved my sanity trying to navigate all the requirements.

Just want to add that you should also check if you qualify for any WA state assistance programs while you're waiting to be able to work. There might be temporary help available for new moms that bridges the gap until you can file for unemployment.

Been there mama! The timing is so hard because you need the money most when you can't work. One thing to consider is whether your job separation was actually voluntary or not. If they couldn't hold your position and you wanted to return, that might be considered involuntary separation which helps your case once you're ready to file for UI.

wait I'm confused - I thought you could get unemployment for family leave?? My sister said she got benefits when her baby was born but that was like 3 years ago

The key thing to remember is documentation, documentation, documentation! When you're ready to file, have everything ready - your work history, reason for separation, doctor's clearance, childcare plans. Washington ESD is really picky about having all your ducks in a row, especially for situations that aren't straightforward like typical layoffs.

Honestly this whole system needs an overhaul. Women shouldn't have to choose between recovering from childbirth and having income. It's ridiculous that you have to be 'able and available' immediately when you just pushed a human out of your body!

Quick question - when you do file, do you put your quit date as your last day of work or when you were supposed to return? I'm in a similar situation and want to make sure I get the dates right.

Another thing to consider is part-time work once you're cleared. You can sometimes collect partial unemployment benefits if you're working reduced hours while looking for full-time work. Might be easier to manage with a baby too.

Make sure you understand the job search requirements too. Once you file, you'll need to do job search activities every week and keep a log. With a newborn it might be challenging so plan ahead for how you'll meet those requirements.

I hate to be negative but just prepare yourself for potential delays in processing. New or unusual situations sometimes trigger additional review periods. That Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier might be helpful if you run into processing issues and need to talk to someone quickly.

One more thought - if you end up having complications or need longer recovery time, some people qualify for temporary disability benefits instead of or before unemployment. Might be worth checking into if your recovery takes longer than expected.

The whole 'able and available' thing is so black and white when real life is more complicated. I had a friend who was cleared to work but still dealing with postpartum depression and they questioned whether she was really available. Just be prepared that they might scrutinize your situation more than a typical claim.

don't forget about WIC and food stamps while you're figuring everything out! those can help stretch your budget until you get back to work

Just wanted to say hang in there! This phase doesn't last forever even though it feels overwhelming. Focus on your recovery first, then worry about the job stuff when you're physically and emotionally ready.

One practical tip - start browsing job postings even before you're ready to apply. It'll help you get a sense of what's available in your field and what employers are looking for. Plus it counts as job search activity once you start filing claims.

Summary for anyone else in this situation: You can't collect unemployment while medically unable to work, but once you're cleared by your doctor you can file if you meet all other eligibility requirements. Make sure you have childcare arranged and are genuinely available for work. Document everything and be prepared for potential delays in processing.

I went through something similar with my second baby. One thing that really helped was getting familiar with WorkSource Washington's online resources before I was ready to file. They have career assessment tools and job search workshops that you can access from home. I did some of their online modules during maternity leave so I'd be better prepared when I was ready to actively job search. Also, if you're in a rural area, remember that you can apply for jobs anywhere in the state - remote work options have really expanded since the pandemic. The key is showing Washington ESD that you're serious about finding work once you're physically able. Good luck mama!