Can you get Washington ESD unemployment if you are on disability?

This is actually more complicated than most people think. You can potentially receive both disability and unemployment but Washington ESD has strict requirements about being able and available for work. If you're on disability, you'll need to prove you can work despite your disability status.

I went through this exact situation last year! The key thing is that Washington ESD looks at whether you're currently able to work, not whether you were disabled in the past. If your doctor clears you for work, you should be eligible.

Getting through to Washington ESD to discuss this kind of complex situation can be really frustrating. I had a similar question about disability and work requirements and couldn't get anyone on the phone for weeks. Finally used claimyr.com to get connected to an actual agent who could explain the rules properly. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

The whole system is ridiculous. How are you supposed to be available for work if you're on disability? Makes no sense to me.

You definitely need to be careful about this. I know someone who got in trouble for collecting both without proper documentation. Make sure you have everything in order before you apply.

The key requirement is that you must be able and available for work each week you claim benefits. If you're receiving disability, Washington ESD will want proof that you can still meet this requirement despite your disability status.

wait so can you work while on disability or not? im confused about all this

I'm dealing with something similar right now. Been on disability for chronic pain but my new treatment is working and I want to try working again. Really nervous about losing my benefits though.

For anyone trying to get clear answers about this from Washington ESD, I really recommend using Claimyr. The phone system is so overloaded right now and this is the kind of question that needs a real conversation with an agent, not just the automated system.

UPDATE: I called my disability case worker today and she said I should definitely talk to Washington ESD before doing anything. She mentioned something about substantial gainful activity rules that could affect my disability if I earn too much from unemployment.

This thread is really helpful. I didn't even know this was possible. I've been afraid to look for work because I thought it would automatically disqualify me from disability.

Still think the whole system is backwards. If you're healthy enough to work, why are you on disability? If you're too disabled to work, why are you applying for unemployment? Pick one.

My sister went through this process about two years ago. She had to provide a lot of medical documentation but eventually got approved for unemployment while keeping her disability. The key was proving she could do specific types of work.

Just want to add that you should document EVERYTHING during this process. Keep copies of all medical records, letters from doctors, and correspondence with both agencies.

Has anyone here actually had their unemployment claim denied because of disability status? I'm curious what the actual denial rate is for these situations.

Just to circle back on the Claimyr thing - I used it again yesterday to ask about a different issue and got connected in about 15 minutes. Way better than spending hours on hold or getting disconnected.

One thing to consider is timing. If you're planning to return to work anyway, it might make sense to wait until you're actually cleared by your doctor before applying for unemployment. Cleaner paperwork trail that way.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful information in this thread. I'm in a similar situation and this has given me a much better understanding of what to expect.

FINAL UPDATE: Talked to Washington ESD today (finally got through!) and they confirmed that I can apply for unemployment as long as I have medical clearance stating I'm able to work. Going to get that documentation from my doctor next week and then file my claim. Thanks everyone for the advice and encouragement!