Can you get Washington ESD unemployment if pregnant - filing while expecting?

Yes, you can absolutely get unemployment benefits while pregnant! Washington ESD cannot discriminate based on pregnancy status. You're eligible as long as you meet the basic requirements - sufficient work history and being able and available for work. When you file your weekly claims, you'll need to certify that you're actively seeking work and available to accept suitable employment.

I filed for UI benefits when I was 7 months pregnant last year and had no issues at all. The key thing is being able to work - as long as your doctor hasn't put you on bed rest or restricted your ability to work, you should be fine. You'll still need to do your job search activities each week though.

Been trying to reach Washington ESD for weeks about my own claim issues. If you run into problems getting through to them about your pregnancy questions, I just discovered this service called Claimyr at claimyr.com that actually got me connected to a real person. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Might be worth checking out if you need to speak with someone directly about your specific situation.

The 'able and available' requirement is key here. Pregnancy itself doesn't disqualify you, but if you become unable to work due to pregnancy complications, that could affect your benefits. Keep documentation from your doctor about your ability to work.

ugh this system is so confusing!! why cant they just have clear answers about this stuff on their website?? ive been looking everywhere and getting different info

I was denied initially because the adjudicator thought I couldn't work while pregnant. Had to appeal and provide medical documentation proving I was able and available. Took an extra 6 weeks to get resolved. Make sure you emphasize your ability to work when you file!

What about after the baby is born? Can you still collect unemployment while on maternity leave?

Thanks everyone for the helpful responses! I'm feeling much more confident about filing now. One more question - should I start my claim right away or wait?

I had a friend who tried to hide her pregnancy during job interviews and felt terrible about it. The whole system puts pregnant women in such a difficult position.

Check if you qualify for any state family leave programs too. Washington has paid family leave that might help bridge the gap after baby arrives.

Just want to follow up on the Claimyr thing I mentioned earlier - I used them again this week when I had questions about my job search log and they got me through to someone in like 15 minutes. Way better than the 3+ hour waits I was dealing with before.

Make sure you keep track of all your job search activities! Being pregnant doesn't change the requirement to apply for jobs and keep records.

Does anyone know if temp agencies are required to consider pregnant applicants? Might be easier to find short-term work that way.

The most important thing is being honest about your availability. If you can work full-time until delivery, make that clear on your weekly claims.

I went through this same situation 2 years ago. Had my baby in January and was collecting UI benefits right up until delivery. No issues at all with Washington ESD.

One thing to remember - if you do find a job while pregnant, you might qualify for unemployment again after delivery if the employer lets you go for any reason related to the birth.

Anyone else think it's crazy that we have to worry about this stuff when we're already dealing with pregnancy? The system needs to be more supportive of families.

Just remember to file your weekly claims on time even if you haven't heard back about your initial application. Missing a weekly claim can mess up your benefits later.

If you end up needing to speak with someone at Washington ESD about your specific pregnancy situation, I've heard good things about that Claimyr service too. They helped my sister get through when she was having issues with her claim.

Update us on how it goes! Would be helpful for other pregnant women who might be in the same situation.