Can you get food stamps while on unemployment in Washington?

Yes you can definitely get SNAP while on unemployment! Your UI benefits count as income but they might still qualify you depending on your household size and total income. You'll need to report your weekly unemployment amount when you apply.

I got approved for food stamps while collecting unemployment last year. The DSHS office was pretty helpful with the application process. Just make sure you have all your unemployment documentation ready.

When I was having trouble getting through to DSHS about my SNAP application while on unemployment, I found this service called Claimyr that helped me get connected faster. They can help with government agency calls - check out claimyr.com. There's even a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

The income limits for SNAP are higher than most people think. Even if your unemployment puts you slightly over the gross income limit, you might still qualify based on net income after deductions.

Be careful about the work requirements though. If you're able-bodied and between 18-49 without kids, there are time limits on how long you can get SNAP benefits unless you're working or in training at least 20 hours a week.

You should apply ASAP because SNAP benefits are usually processed within 30 days but can be expedited if you qualify for emergency processing. Don't wait until your unemployment runs out.

I applied online through the Washington Connection website and it was pretty straightforward. You can upload your documents directly instead of mailing them in.

Don't forget that if you get SNAP benefits, you'll need to report any changes in your unemployment status. If your UI benefits increase or decrease, or if you find a job, you have to let DSHS know within 10 days.

One thing to keep in mind is that your SNAP benefits might be reduced once you report your unemployment income, but you'll likely still get something. Even $50-100 a month in food assistance helps.

Also worth noting that SNAP benefits come on an EBT card that works like a debit card at most grocery stores. You can't use it for prepared foods or non-food items, but it covers most groceries.

If you need help reaching DSHS to ask questions about your SNAP application, Claimyr really does work well for getting through busy government phone lines. Saved me hours of waiting on hold when I had questions about my case.

Remember that receiving SNAP benefits won't affect your unemployment benefits at all. They're completely separate programs administered by different agencies.

Make sure you keep copies of everything you submit for your SNAP application. If there are any issues or they need additional documentation, you'll want to have everything organized.

If you get approved for SNAP, you'll also want to look into other assistance programs like LIHEAP for utility bills or the WIC program if you have young children. Washington has a lot of support programs available.

One last tip - if you're denied SNAP benefits for any reason, you have the right to appeal the decision. Don't just accept a denial without understanding why it happened.

Overall it's definitely worth applying. The worst they can say is no, and if you qualify, it can really help stretch your unemployment benefits further while you're job hunting.

Just wanted to add that if you're struggling to get through to DSHS by phone, you can also visit a local Community Service Office in person. Sometimes it's faster than waiting on hold, and they can help you with the application right there. You can find office locations on the DSHS website. Also, many food banks don't require any paperwork and can help supplement your groceries while you're waiting for SNAP approval - just something to consider as a temporary solution.