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

That's a relief! Do you know if I need to report my unemployment benefits when I apply for SNAP?

Yes, you'll need to report your weekly UI amount as income on your SNAP application. They'll calculate your eligibility based on that.

That's helpful to know the actual numbers. I'm getting $465/week from Washington ESD so hopefully I'll still qualify.

The income limits for SNAP are pretty reasonable, especially if you're used to having a regular paycheck. UI benefits are usually lower than your previous wages.

Good to know! I'll make sure to have that ready when I apply.

I had trouble getting that letter from my Washington ESD account. The system kept timing out when I tried to generate it. Anyone else have this issue?

I had the same problem with the Washington ESD website. If you can't get through online, you might want to try calling them directly. I know it's hard to get through, but there's actually a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you get connected to Washington ESD agents faster. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

That's a common misconception. SNAP and unemployment are different programs with different purposes. UI replaces lost wages temporarily, while SNAP helps with food costs. You can receive both as long as you meet the eligibility requirements for each.

You're thinking of some other benefit combinations that have restrictions. SNAP specifically allows unemployment income - it's actually one of the income sources they expect to see during economic downturns.

How long did it take to get approved for SNAP? I'm worried about the timing.

About 3 weeks for me, but I applied online through Washington Connection. They have expedited processing if you're in emergency situations too.

Good point. I'll make sure to keep track of any changes to my unemployment benefits.

This is important. I forgot to report when my UI ended and they caught it during a review. Had to pay back some benefits but they were understanding since it wasn't intentional.

Thanks! I'll check that out. The online application sounds much easier.

The online system is pretty good but sometimes it glitches. If you have problems, you can still print the application and mail it in.

Thank you for saying that. I do feel a bit weird about applying for SNAP but you're right, these programs exist for situations like this.

Exactly. And using SNAP while on unemployment is super common. The programs are designed to work together to help people get back on their feet.

No kids, but good to know for others reading this thread.

I didn't think about that connection. I am doing my required job searches for Washington ESD, so hopefully that counts.

It should definitely count. The job search requirements for UI are pretty comprehensive and include all the activities SNAP typically requires.

I hear you, but once you get through the initial applications it's not too bad to maintain both. The monthly SNAP reporting is pretty straightforward.

It is frustrating but the people at both agencies are usually pretty helpful if you call and explain your situation.

That's awesome! Thanks for the update. I'm going to apply for SNAP this week.

Glad it worked out! The combination of both programs really does make a difference when you're between jobs.

I'll keep that in mind if I run into issues getting documents from Washington ESD.

How much does Claimyr cost? I've been trying to get through to ESD for weeks about a different issue.

I don't remember the exact cost but it was worth it for me to avoid the frustration of calling ESD over and over. Check out their website at claimyr.com for current pricing.

Good advice. I'll make sure to keep everything organized.

Yes, documentation is key with any government benefits. Better to have too much paperwork than not enough.

Glad this helped someone else too! Good luck with your application.

That's what these forums are for - helping each other navigate these systems. Hope your application goes smoothly!