Can you get Washington ESD unemployment benefits while on disability?

That makes sense. I do have medical clearance for light duty work, so I think I might qualify. Do I need to report my SSDI income when I file my weekly claims?

Yes, you'll need to report all income including SSDI on your weekly claims. Washington ESD will calculate how it affects your benefit amount.

Oh no, that sounds frustrating. How long did it take to get your unemployment claim approved?

About 6 weeks total, but most of that was waiting for adjudication while they reviewed my medical records.

Six weeks is pretty typical for complex cases like this. The adjudication process takes time when there are medical issues involved.

Really? I've been trying to call Washington ESD for days with no luck. How does that service work exactly?

Basically they handle the calling process for you so you don't have to sit on hold. Way less stressful than dealing with the busy signals and dropped calls.

Interesting, I might have to try that. I've wasted so much time trying to get through to someone at Washington ESD.

So if I'm getting $1,200 monthly in SSDI, that would reduce my weekly unemployment by about $275?

That's roughly correct, though the exact calculation depends on your weekly benefit amount and how Washington ESD processes the deduction.

Wait, I thought disability income wasn't supposed to be counted against unemployment benefits?

That's a common misconception. SSDI is considered unearned income and gets deducted dollar-for-dollar from your weekly benefit amount in Washington.

I understand the frustration. The system is complex because they have to balance different federal and state regulations. The good news is that it's definitely possible to get benefits in your situation.

ok but how do I even start the process? do I file online like everyone else?

Yes, you file through the same online system at secure.esd.wa.gov. Just make sure you have all your medical documentation ready in case they request it during adjudication.

Oh wow, I hadn't thought about that. Could I lose my SSDI if I'm job searching?

Not just for searching, but if you start earning too much they might consider you able to work. There are work incentive programs though, so check with Social Security about those.

This is why I hate dealing with government benefits. Everything affects everything else.

I have a letter from my doctor clearing me for light duty work. Would that be enough documentation?

That's a good start, but they might want more specific information about what types of jobs you can perform and your availability for work. Keep all your medical records handy.

How are you handling the job search log? I'm worried about finding enough suitable positions to apply for each week.

I document every application and include notes about why certain jobs weren't suitable due to my restrictions. Washington ESD seems to accept that as long as you're making genuine efforts.

That's the right approach. Quality over quantity when it comes to job search activities, especially when you have medical limitations.

Yes, participating in approved retraining or vocational rehabilitation programs can count toward your job search requirements. Make sure to document your participation.

Great! That takes some pressure off. I was worried about finding enough job applications each week.

8 weeks?! That seems like forever when you're waiting for benefits.

Yeah it was rough, but they did backpay everything once it was approved. Just make sure you keep filing your weekly claims even during adjudication.

wait, you have to keep filing even when they haven't approved your claim yet?

Yes, you must continue filing weekly claims throughout the adjudication process or you'll lose those weeks permanently.

How much does something like that cost? I'm already struggling financially.

It's definitely worth it compared to spending days trying to get through on your own. The peace of mind alone was huge for me.

That's a good point. I guess being disabled doesn't necessarily mean you can't work at all, especially with accommodations.

Exactly. SSDI recognizes that you can't do your previous work, but unemployment looks at whether you can do any work within your limitations.

Good to know. I'll make sure to keep both agencies updated if anything changes with my medical condition.

This is all so complicated. Sometimes I think it would be easier to just stay on disability and not work at all.

I understand that feeling, but if you're medically cleared to work, even part-time, it's worth exploring your options. The goal is to become as self-sufficient as possible.

How did you handle the job search part? I'm worried about applying for jobs I physically can't do.

Focus on jobs that specifically accommodate your restrictions or are naturally compatible with your limitations. Remote work, desk jobs, part-time positions, etc. Document why other jobs aren't suitable.

That's smart. I've been applying for everything and then having to explain why I can't actually do half of them.

The pandemic-era programs have ended, but you can still cite health concerns as limiting your available work if you're in a high-risk category. Document any medical advice about workplace safety.

Thanks, that's helpful. My doctor has recommended I avoid certain work environments due to my compromised immune system.

Thanks everyone for all the advice! This has been really helpful. I think I'm going to start the application process and see what happens.

Good luck! Remember to be completely honest about your situation and keep filing those weekly claims even during adjudication.

Yeah, and don't get discouraged if it takes a while. The system is slow but it does work eventually.

How would I know if I need to appeal something?

You'll get written notices for any denials or adverse decisions. Read them carefully - they'll include appeal instructions and deadlines.

Appeals must be filed within 30 days of the notice date in most cases. Don't delay if you disagree with a decision.

Will do! Thanks again everyone for all the helpful information. This forum has been a lifesaver.

That's what we're here for! Hope everything works out for you.