Can you get PFL and unemployment benefits at the same time in Washington?

But what if I got laid off while on leave? Wouldn't that change things since it wasn't my choice to leave?

The layoff might matter for eligibility later, but while you're actively receiving PFL you still wouldn't meet the available for work requirement for unemployment.

Good luck getting through to them on the phone though. I've been trying for weeks to get someone to answer basic questions about my claim.

If you're having trouble reaching Washington ESD by phone, there's actually a service called Claimyr that helps people get through to agents faster. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo showing how it works at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ

Never heard of that but at this point I'm willing to try anything. The hold times are ridiculous.

That's really helpful! Did you have any issues proving you were laid off while on leave? I'm worried they might think I voluntarily quit.

I had to provide documentation from my employer showing the layoff was due to business closure, not related to my leave. Make sure you get something in writing from HR.

This is why I hate these government programs - so confusing and they never explain anything clearly!

No, don't do that. You could get hit with an overpayment if you receive benefits you're not entitled to. Always better to clarify eligibility first.

oh ok didn't know that could be a problem

So if my PFL runs out next month and I'm still unemployed due to the layoff, I should be able to apply for UI then?

Exactly. Just make sure you have documentation of the layoff and be prepared to explain the timeline during your UI application.

That's a tough choice to have to make. Did you apply for unemployment after your PFL ended?

Yeah, and it was approved but took forever to process. Had to really push to get them to understand the timeline of events.

Seriously! And when you try to call for clarification you either get hung up on or transferred 5 times.

That's exactly why services like Claimyr exist - to help cut through the phone system maze. I used them when I had adjudication issues and actually got through to someone who could help.

What do you mean about timing being important?

If you wait too long after your PFL ends to apply for UI, they might question why there was a gap. Better to apply as soon as your PFL period is over.

Good point. I think there's also something about backdating claims if you have good cause for the delay but it's complicated.

Thanks for sharing your experience! Did Washington ESD give you any trouble about the transition from PFL to UI?

Not really, but I had to be very clear about the dates and circumstances. Having documentation helped a lot.

That's part of the problem - you sometimes get different answers depending on who you talk to. The written policies are more reliable than phone advice.

Which is why it's so hard to get accurate information! Everyone says something different.

That's illegal if you took legally protected family leave. You might need to file an appeal if they deny your claim based on that reasoning.

Yeah I'm gathering documentation now. This is such a mess.

Ugh employers can be the worst about this stuff. Hope you get it sorted out!

I looked through their FAQ but must have missed it. Do you remember what section it was in?

I think it was under the PFL section, not the unemployment section which is why it's hard to find.

This is really solid advice, thank you! I'm going to start gathering all my documentation now so I'm ready.

Smart to prepare ahead of time. The more documentation you have, the smoother the process usually goes.

That sounds really useful. I'm definitely going to look into that if I have trouble getting through to Washington ESD.

I'm skeptical of paying for something like that but honestly if it saves hours of being on hold, might be worth it.

Perfect summary. Thanks everyone for all the helpful info!

Good luck with everything! Hope it all works out smoothly for you.