Can you collect unemployment if you are injured off the job in Washington?

So if I can do desk work or light duty stuff, that would count as being available? My back injury only affects heavy lifting.

Exactly. Washington ESD looks at what work you CAN do, not what you can't. If you can perform office work, customer service, or other non-physical jobs, you'd likely meet the able and available requirement.

Did you have any trouble getting through to them when you applied? I've heard it's really hard to reach someone at Washington ESD.

Oh man, calling Washington ESD was a nightmare. Took me weeks of trying. Actually ended up using this service called Claimyr that helped me get through. They have this system that keeps calling until they connect you with an agent. Worth checking out at claimyr.com - they even have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ

If you quit due to circumstances beyond your control, like a non-work injury that prevents you from performing your job duties, Washington ESD may consider it good cause. But you need proper documentation and the employer has to be unable to accommodate your restrictions.

oh ok that makes sense. so its not really quitting its more like forced leave

Good point about being specific. I was thinking data entry, receptionist work, maybe phone customer service. Those don't require lifting.

Perfect examples. Document those in your job search activities and make sure your weekly claims reflect you're looking in those categories. Washington ESD wants to see you're genuinely seeking work you can actually do.

I mean, the system has to have some standards. If everyone who got injured could just collect unemployment indefinitely, it would be abused.

But that's not what anyone is talking about! This person is actively looking for work they CAN do. That's the whole point of being 'able and available' - able to do SOME work, not ALL work.

Should the letter mention specific job duties I can still perform, or just the physical limitations?

Both! List the restrictions (no lifting over X pounds, no prolonged standing, etc.) AND examples of work you can still do. Makes it crystal clear for the adjudicator reviewing your claim.

How long did it take them to make a decision once you explained everything?

about 2 weeks after i submitted all the medical paperwork and job search documentation. the hard part was just getting someone on the phone to walk through my specific situation

Right, I need to do 3 job search activities per week. Can those all be online applications or do I need to do other types too?

Online applications count, but mix it up. Job fairs, networking events, even contacting temp agencies for office work. Variety shows you're serious about finding suitable employment.

How long did the appeal process take? I really can't afford to wait months for this to get sorted out.

I think it was like 6-8 weeks for the appeal hearing, then another few weeks for the decision. Definitely try to get it right the first time if you can.

Good point. I've already been out of work for almost 2 weeks waiting to see if they'd find me something I could do.

File today if possible. Washington ESD won't pay for weeks before you file your initial claim, so every day you wait is money lost.