Can you get Washington ESD unemployment for being pregnant - confused about eligibility

Yes, you can definitely file for unemployment while pregnant in Washington! The key is that you have to be able and available for work. Since you're willing to work and they're not giving you hours, that could qualify you for partial unemployment benefits. You should file a claim ASAP because there's usually a waiting period.

I went through this exact situation last year! Washington ESD approved my claim even though I was pregnant. The important thing is that you're actively seeking work and available to work within your physical limitations. Since your employer is reducing your hours, you should qualify for partial UI benefits. Make sure to report your reduced hours when you file your weekly claims.

I had trouble getting through to Washington ESD when I was dealing with a similar situation. Their phone lines are always busy and it's frustrating when you need answers quickly. I ended up using a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to an actual ESD agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. It was worth it to get my questions answered properly.

wait so can you work while pregnant and still get unemployment? i thought you had to be completely unemployed to get benefits

Just be careful about the job search requirements. Even while pregnant, you still need to be actively looking for work and meet the weekly job search requirements. Keep track of your applications because ESD can audit your job search activities.

This is ridiculous that pregnant women have to jump through hoops to get basic support. The system is broken.

I'm dealing with something similar but I'm a server and my doctor said I can't be on my feet for long periods anymore. My restaurant basically stopped scheduling me. Did you have any issues with medical restrictions when you applied?

File your claim online at secure.esd.wa.gov and don't wait! The sooner you file, the sooner you can start receiving benefits. Even if they need to review your case, you want to get the process started. And definitely keep documenting how your employer is reducing your hours - that's important evidence.

My friend used Claimyr when she was having issues with her unemployment claim during her pregnancy. She said it was the only way she could actually talk to someone at ESD without waiting on hold forever. The service connects you directly to an agent when they're available.

Don't forget about the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) too. If you work for a company with 50+ employees, you might be eligible for job-protected leave when you have the baby. It's unpaid but at least they can't fire you.

ugh this happened to me too! my manager kept 'forgetting' to schedule me once i started showing. its so obvious what they're doing but hard to prove

I work in HR and see this situation a lot. Employers sometimes don't realize they're creating a hostile work environment. You should definitely file for unemployment AND consider reaching out to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission if you think there's discrimination involved.

Make sure you understand the difference between partial and total unemployment. If you're still getting some hours, you'll file for partial benefits. The weekly benefit amount gets reduced based on what you earn, but you can still get some help.

When I was pregnant I had to deal with ESD adjudication because they questioned whether I was truly available for work. It took forever to get resolved. I wish I had known about services like Claimyr back then - would have saved me weeks of stress trying to get through to someone who could help.

The most important thing is to be completely honest on your application. Don't try to hide your pregnancy - it's not a disqualifying factor. The worst thing you can do is provide false information because that can disqualify you entirely.

Also check if your state has any additional pregnancy-related support programs. Washington has some good family support services that might help supplement your unemployment benefits.

Good luck with your claim! The process can be confusing but don't give up. You have rights and protections, even while pregnant. Keep all your documentation and don't hesitate to ask for help if you get stuck.