Can you get SSDI and unemployment benefits at the same time from Washington ESD?

This is actually a complex situation that depends on several factors. Generally, you can receive both SSDI and unemployment benefits simultaneously, but there are important considerations. The key issue is that unemployment requires you to be 'able and available' for work, while SSDI is based on being unable to work due to disability. Washington ESD will want to know about your SSDI status.

I was in a similar situation last year. The thing is, SSDI has different categories and some allow for work attempts. If you're on SSDI but still considered able to work part-time or in certain circumstances, you might qualify for unemployment too. But you definitely need to report it to Washington ESD.

You really need to contact Washington ESD directly about this. The rules are specific and depend on your individual circumstances. I'd recommend calling them, but good luck getting through - their phone lines are constantly busy. You might want to try Claimyr (claimyr.com) - they help people get through to Washington ESD agents. I used them when I had a complex issue and actually got connected to someone who could help.

wait so your telling me you can get unemployment AND disability?? that doesn't make sense to me. if your disabled you can't work so why would you get unemployment for being out of work?

This is exactly why I hate dealing with government agencies. Nothing ever makes sense and they don't explain anything clearly. You can get disability AND unemployment but somehow you have to be unable to work AND able to work at the same time? The whole system is ridiculous.

I work in disability advocacy and this comes up a lot. The key distinction is between 'total disability' and 'substantial gainful activity.' If your SSDI is based on an inability to perform substantial gainful activity but you can still work part-time or in limited capacity, you may qualify for unemployment benefits while actively seeking work within your limitations.

The important thing is being honest with both agencies. Don't try to hide anything because they can cross-reference information. I reported my SSDI to Washington ESD and they reviewed my case individually.

Also keep in mind that some SSDI recipients are encouraged to try working as part of their rehabilitation. Programs like Ticket to Work specifically support people transitioning back to employment. In those cases, unemployment benefits during job search makes perfect sense.

Just to follow up on my earlier suggestion - if you're having trouble reaching Washington ESD to report your SSDI, Claimyr really helped me. I was in a similar situation where I needed to report a change in circumstances and couldn't get through on the phone. They got me connected to an actual person who could handle my case properly.

This happened to my sister in 2023. She was on SSDI but still looking for part-time work within her restrictions. Washington ESD reviewed her case and determined she could continue receiving unemployment as long as she was genuinely seeking appropriate work opportunities.

this is all so confusing. why don't they just have clear rules posted somewhere that normal people can understand?

The worst part is the waiting and not knowing. You're stuck in limbo wondering if you're doing something wrong or if they're going to demand money back. The system needs to be more transparent about these situations.

My advice is document everything. Keep records of all your communications with both Washington ESD and Social Security. If there are any issues later, you'll have a paper trail showing you tried to do the right thing.

One more thing - make sure you understand your job search requirements. If you're on SSDI with work limitations, Washington ESD may adjust your job search requirements to match what you can actually do. Don't just apply for jobs you can't perform.

Remember that both SSDI and unemployment benefits serve different purposes and have different eligibility criteria. SSDI is long-term support for disability, while unemployment is temporary support during job search. In some cases, receiving both makes sense if you're transitioning back to work within your limitations.

Bottom line - contact Washington ESD as soon as possible to report your SSDI. Don't wait and worry about it. Whether through their regular phone line or a service like Claimyr, get this sorted out officially so you know where you stand.

Final thought - if Washington ESD determines there's any conflict between your benefits, they'll work with you to resolve it. The goal isn't to punish people but to ensure benefits are distributed correctly according to the rules. Being proactive and honest is always the best approach.

This thread was really helpful. I'm in a similar situation and was wondering the same thing. Thanks for asking the question!

Just want to add that you should also check if your state has any specific rules about concurrent benefits. Some states have different interpretations of federal guidelines.

Thanks for this discussion. I learned a lot about how these benefits can work together. The government really should make this information more accessible.