Can you get Washington ESD unemployment while waiting for disability approval?

But what if I could do some types of work just not my previous job? Like desk work instead of physical labor?

That might work if you can genuinely say you're available for suitable work within your restrictions. You'd need to be actively job searching too.

Same here! I've been trying to reach someone at Washington ESD for weeks about my situation. The automated system just hangs up on you after waiting forever.

Actually, I found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows exactly how it works. Really helped me when I needed to discuss my specific circumstances.

interesting, never heard of that before. might be worth trying since the regular phone number is useless

Wait, so I could get approved for both and then owe money back? That sounds like a nightmare.

It depends on the timing and circumstances. If disability gets approved retroactively to cover the same period you got UI, yes there could be overpayment issues.

I feel this so much. It's like they want people to just give up and disappear.

Right? I just need some income while waiting for the disability decision. Shouldn't be this complicated.

That makes sense. So I should get a letter from my doctor specifying what kinds of work I can still do?

Exactly. Having documentation of your work capacity helps if Washington ESD questions your ability/availability for work during weekly claims.

This is good advice. I did something similar when I had restrictions after an injury.

You still need to do the required job search activities each week, but they should be for positions within your restrictions. Document everything in your job search log.

Got it. So apply for jobs I can actually do with my limitations, not just any job.

Did she win the appeal? This is exactly what I'm worried about.

yeah but it took months and she had to get a lawyer involved. was a mess

This is where talking to an actual Washington ESD representative helps clarify your specific situation before filing. That Claimyr service I mentioned earlier really comes in handy for these complex questions.

This is getting complicated. Maybe I should just wait for the disability decision?

Don't wait if you need income now. Disability can take years to get approved. Just be prepared for the paperwork if both come through.

Good point. I should look into SNAP and other programs too.

Yes, and some are easier to qualify for than unemployment while dealing with disability issues.

DSHS has case workers who can help navigate multiple programs at once.

Really? What did they tell you about the disability/unemployment situation?

basically said it depends on your specific medical restrictions and what work you can still do. they recommended getting documentation from doctor first before applying

That makes sense. I think I can do desk work even if I can't do my old construction job.

Then focus your job search on office/desk positions within your abilities. Document everything for Washington ESD.

Definitely won't lie. Just trying to figure out if I legitimately qualify or not.

Good approach. Better to get clarity upfront than deal with overpayment issues later.

I hadn't thought of that. Good idea to get legal advice on this.

yeah they deal with this stuff all the time and know the rules better than most people

Thanks everyone. I think I'll get documentation from my doctor first, then try to speak with Washington ESD before applying.

Smart plan. Better to get it right the first time than deal with appeals and overpayments.