Can you get Washington ESD unemployment if you are pregnant?

Yes, you can absolutely get unemployment benefits while pregnant in Washington! Being pregnant doesn't disqualify you from UI benefits as long as you're able and available for work. The key is that you have to be actively seeking work and able to accept suitable employment if offered.

I went through this exact situation last year. Washington ESD can't discriminate against pregnant women for benefits. You just need to show you're actively job searching and available for work. Make sure to document your job search activities properly in WorkSource.

If you're having trouble getting through to Washington ESD to ask questions about your specific situation, I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you actually reach a live agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Really helped me when I couldn't get through the phone lines.

The main thing is you can't restrict your availability too much. If you say you can only work 2 days a week or specific hours that are too limiting, that might be a problem. But reasonable restrictions for medical appointments should be fine.

Just make sure when you file your initial claim you're honest about your situation but emphasize that you're able and willing to work. Don't volunteer information about pregnancy unless specifically asked, but don't lie either.

One thing to keep in mind is that when you do give birth, you'll need to report that you're temporarily unable to work during recovery. But that's handled differently - you might be eligible for Paid Family Medical Leave through Washington State.

I had a friend who got denied initially because she mentioned in her phone interview that she was looking for 'family friendly' jobs. The adjudicator thought she was being too restrictive. She had to appeal and explain that she was still willing to accept any suitable work.

The job search requirement is the same whether you're pregnant or not - 3 job search activities per week. Make sure you're applying to jobs you're actually qualified for and can realistically do.

I'm dealing with something similar but I'm worried about the adjudication process. My claim has been pending for 2 weeks and I can't get through to ask questions. The waiting is making me so anxious.

Make sure you keep detailed records of everything - your job applications, any communications with Washington ESD, doctor's notes about your ability to work. Documentation is key if any issues come up.

The system is supposed to protect pregnant workers but sometimes individual adjudicators don't understand the rules. Don't let anyone tell you that pregnancy automatically disqualifies you.

One tip - when you do your weekly claims, be consistent about your availability. Don't change your answers week to week unless your actual situation changes.

I used Claimyr when I had questions about my claim and pregnancy. The agent I spoke with was really knowledgeable about how pregnancy affects eligibility. Worth it just for the peace of mind.

Just remember that unemployment is insurance you paid into through your paychecks. You earned this benefit and pregnancy doesn't change that as long as you meet the other requirements.

If you do run into problems with your claim, remember you can appeal. The appeals process exists specifically for situations where initial decisions might be wrong.

Good luck with your claim! Pregnancy is stressful enough without worrying about finances. You should be fine as long as you're honest and follow the requirements.