Can you draw unemployment while on social security in Washington ESD?

That's a relief! Do I need to report my social security income when I file my weekly claims?

Yes, you'll need to report your social security as other income on your weekly claims. It won't reduce your UI benefits though since it's not wages from work.

How are you handling the job search requirement? I'm worried employers won't want to hire someone my age.

You still have to do 3 job search activities per week and log them in WorkSourceWA. I've been applying to part-time positions mostly since that's what I was doing before.

Age discrimination is real but you can't let that stop you from meeting the job search requirements. Document everything properly in your job search log.

Is that legit? I've been trying to call Washington ESD for days to ask about this exact question.

Yeah it's totally legitimate. They basically call for you and get you connected to an ESD agent. Saved me hours of trying to get through myself.

Good to know! So if I find part-time work I can still collect partial unemployment?

Exactly. As long as you earn less than your weekly benefit amount plus $5, you can get partial benefits.

No, social security retirement benefits don't reduce your UI benefits in Washington. Only wages from work count against your weekly benefit amount.

Thanks for clarifying! I was worried about that too since I might be in this situation soon.

What's adjudication? Should I be worried if that happens?

Adjudication just means they're reviewing your claim to make sure everything is correct. It's routine, especially for people with unique situations like collecting social security.

If your claim goes into adjudication and you need to speak with someone at ESD about it, that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier could help you get through to an agent faster.

You don't need to upload it initially, but keep it handy in case they ask for verification of your other income during the process.

Perfect, I have all my paperwork ready just in case.

You're right, I need to just do it. How long did it take for your first payment?

About 3 weeks total from filing to first payment, but that included a week of adjudication.

That makes sense. I am looking for part-time work so I would be available.

Exactly! Just make sure your job search activities reflect the type of work you're actually willing and able to do.

Good point about SSDI being different. That's a whole other set of rules about substantial gainful activity.

Right, but for regular retirement social security like the OP is talking about, there's no conflict with UI benefits.

I know right? There's so much conflicting information online about this stuff.

The job search requirements are the same regardless of age. You need 3 job search activities per week and they should be for suitable work based on your background and experience.

That's what I figured. Just wanted to make sure there weren't any special accommodations.

No special accommodations but 'suitable work' does take into account your previous wage level and job skills, so you're not expected to take just anything.

That's really helpful to know! I might try that if I have more questions after filing.

Definitely worth it if you need to talk to someone. Way better than spending hours trying to get through on your own.

Great job! Now make sure to file your weekly claims on time and keep up with your job search requirements.

Awesome! You'll probably get your first payment in a couple weeks if everything stays on track.

Congrats on taking that step! Keep us posted on how it goes.

Definitely file! No reason not to if you meet the other requirements.

Planning to file tomorrow. Thanks for sharing your experience!

That's reassuring! I was worried it might cause complications with my social security.

Nope, they're completely separate systems. Just make sure you report everything accurately on your weekly claims.

Absolutely. I genuinely do want to find another part-time position.

Then you should be fine! Just document your job search activities properly and you're good to go.

Good advice! I'll keep that in mind if any issues come up during the process.

Better to get clarity upfront than deal with problems later. The ESD agents are actually pretty helpful when you can reach them.

You're welcome! Feel free to post updates or new questions as you go through the process.

Good luck with your claim and your job search!