Can you get Washington ESD unemployment if you get SSDI or state disability benefits?

Generally speaking, you cannot collect both unemployment and disability benefits at the same time because they contradict each other. Unemployment requires you to be able and available for work, while disability means you're unable to work. Washington ESD will likely require repayment of any UI benefits received while eligible for disability.

wait this happened to my brother last year!! he had to pay back like $4,000 in unemployment because his disability got approved retroactively. washington esd was NOT messing around about getting their money back

This is a really common issue that trips people up. The key dates matter a lot here - when did his disability approval become effective versus when he was collecting UI? Sometimes there's a gap period where you might be okay. I'd suggest using a service like Claimyr (claimyr.com) to actually get through to a Washington ESD agent who can review your specific timeline. Their video demo shows exactly how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Getting accurate information about your specific situation is crucial before you make any decisions.

I'm confused about this whole thing. If someone is on temporary disability from their job, can they still get unemployment? Or is this only about permanent disability like SSDI?

THE SYSTEM IS SO BROKEN!! They expect people to navigate all these contradictory rules while dealing with disability and financial stress. How is anyone supposed to know you can't collect both?? They should make this clearer upfront instead of creating debt traps for people who are already struggling!

OP, you need to act fast here. Washington ESD has the right to recover overpayments and they will. The good news is they usually offer payment plans if you can't pay a lump sum. Also, depending on when his disability was approved retroactively, you might owe less than you think.

Been there. Got approved for state disability while on UI and had to pay back $2,800. Washington ESD was actually pretty reasonable about setting up payments but you have to be proactive about contacting them.

Just want to second the Claimyr recommendation. I used it when I had a complex eligibility question and actually got to speak with someone knowledgeable at Washington ESD instead of getting the runaround. Worth every penny when you're dealing with potential overpayments.

my cousin went through this exact thing. she thought she could keep both but washington esd caught it during some kind of audit. ended up owing back $3,200 and had to do a payment plan for like 18 months

One thing to keep in mind - if your husband was legitimately able and available for work during the time he was collecting UI, even though he later qualified for disability, the overpayment rules might be different. The timing and circumstances matter a lot in these cases.

This is why I hate the benefits system. You're damned if you do, damned if you don't. People need help but the rules are designed to trap you.

OP - make sure you keep detailed records of all communications with Washington ESD about this. If they do determine there's an overpayment, you want documentation of everything discussed regarding payment arrangements.

Had a similar situation with my dad. The key is being upfront and honest with Washington ESD about the disability approval. They're more likely to work with you if you're transparent rather than if they discover it themselves.

Quick question - does this apply to all types of disability or just SSDI? What about if someone gets workers comp disability?

I work in benefits administration (not for Washington ESD) and see this issue constantly. The problem is that people apply for multiple benefits simultaneously and don't realize they can conflict with each other until it's too late.

For what it's worth, Washington ESD's payment plan options are usually pretty reasonable. They'd rather get their money back over time than never get it back at all.

This thread is making me paranoid about my own situation. I'm on temporary disability but have been thinking about filing for unemployment when it ends. Should I be worried?

Update us on how it goes OP! I'm sure other people will end up in similar situations and your experience could help them.

One last thought - if the overpayment amount is significant, you might want to consult with a benefits attorney. Some will do free consultations and might be able to help negotiate with Washington ESD.