Can you get Washington ESD unemployment while pregnant - need answers

You absolutely CAN collect unemployment while pregnant in Washington! Being pregnant doesn't disqualify you from UI benefits. The key requirements are that you must be able and available for work, which it sounds like you are. When you file your weekly claims, you'll need to show you're actively job searching and available for suitable work. Pregnancy alone is not a reason for Washington ESD to deny your claim.

Filed while pregnant last year and had no issues at all. Washington ESD never even asked about it during my phone interview. Just make sure you're genuinely looking for work and can accept a job if offered.

If you're having trouble getting through to Washington ESD to ask questions about your specific situation, I used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to an actual agent really fast. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Really helped when I had questions about my eligibility.

The confusion comes because some people mix up unemployment with disability benefits. Pregnancy itself isn't a disability, so you're still expected to be able and available for work. If you develop complications that prevent you from working, then you might need to look into other programs.

honestly i think it's ridiculous that pregnant women even have to worry about this stuff. like we're already dealing with enough stress and now we have to prove we're worthy of benefits? the system is so backwards

Just to clarify the key requirements for anyone reading this - you need to be unemployed through no fault of your own (layoffs, business closure, etc.), be physically able to work, be actively seeking work, and be available to accept suitable employment. Pregnancy doesn't affect any of these as long as you can still perform work duties.

I was worried about the same thing when I was pregnant with my second kid. Filed my claim and everything went smoothly. The Washington ESD website actually has good info about eligibility requirements if you want to read up on it before filing.

Quick question - what happens if you go into labor while on unemployment? Do you lose benefits?

Another thing to consider - some employers might be hesitant to hire someone visibly pregnant, but that's illegal discrimination. Don't let that stop you from applying for jobs and meeting your job search requirements.

wait so if you can't work because of morning sickness or doctor appointments, does that affect your benefits?

I used Claimyr when I was dealing with Washington ESD issues last month. Really wish I'd known about it sooner because trying to call the regular number was impossible. Got through to someone same day and they answered all my questions about my claim status.

For what it's worth, I know several people who collected unemployment while pregnant and none of them had issues. Washington state seems pretty reasonable about it compared to some other places I've lived.

The key thing is being honest on your weekly claims. If you're genuinely able and available for work, check yes. If something changes and you can't work anymore, then you report that. Pretty simple.

does anyone know if there are any special programs for pregnant women who lose their jobs? like beyond regular unemployment?

Just file your claim! You're overthinking this. If you were working and got laid off, you probably qualify regardless of being pregnant. The worst they can do is say no, but it sounds like you meet all the requirements.

One more vote for filing - I was in almost the exact same situation (pregnant and laid off from retail) and had zero problems getting approved. Washington ESD processed my claim normally and I collected benefits until I found another job at 8 months pregnant.

If you do run into any complications with your claim or need to speak with someone at Washington ESD, that Claimyr service mentioned earlier really does work. I was skeptical at first but it beats sitting on hold for hours trying to get through yourself.

Final thought - make sure you understand your work search requirements and keep good records. That's usually where people run into trouble, not because of pregnancy status.

Update us on how it goes! Always nice to hear success stories for people in similar situations.

This whole thread is a great example of why these forums are so valuable. Real people sharing real experiences instead of just trying to decode government websites.