Can you get unemployment and social security disability at the same time in Washington ESD?

This is actually a really complex situation and you need to be very careful. Generally speaking, Social Security Disability and unemployment benefits have conflicting requirements. SSDI requires that you be unable to work, while unemployment requires that you be able and available for work. However, there are some limited circumstances where you might be able to receive both temporarily.

I went through something similar last year. The key thing is that Social Security has something called a Trial Work Period where you can test your ability to work while still receiving SSDI. But unemployment is trickier because you have to certify that you're ready to work immediately.

Actually, you might want to check with Claimyr if you're having trouble getting through to Washington ESD to ask about this specific situation. I used them when I had questions about my claim and they helped me reach an actual agent who could explain the rules. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

From what I understand, Washington state doesn't automatically disqualify you from unemployment just because you receive SSDI, but the federal rules create conflicts. You'd need to meet Washington ESD's able and available requirements, which means being ready to accept suitable work immediately.

This whole system is so messed up! Why should someone have to choose between getting help finding work and keeping their disability benefits? It makes no sense.

Here's my advice: Before you do ANYTHING, contact both Social Security and Washington ESD directly to discuss your specific situation. Don't rely on general information because every case is different. Also consider talking to a disability attorney who understands both systems.

I've been on SSDI for three years and I looked into this exact question. What I learned is that if you apply for unemployment, you're essentially telling the government you're ready and able to work full time. That directly contradicts your disability claim.

If you do decide to contact Washington ESD about this, seriously consider using Claimyr to get through. I spent hours on hold trying to reach them the traditional way, but Claimyr got me connected to an agent in like 20 minutes. Worth every penny when you need real answers about complex situations like this.

One thing to consider is that even if you could technically qualify for both, the amounts might not be worth the risk. SSDI payments are usually more stable and reliable than unemployment benefits, which are temporary anyway.

Has anyone actually successfully collected both? I keep hearing theories but no real examples of people who managed to do it without problems.

The reality is that most people in your situation choose to stick with SSDI rather than risk it for temporary unemployment benefits. The Social Security Administration takes a very dim view of people claiming disability while also saying they're ready to work.

Whatever you decide, document EVERYTHING. Keep records of all your medical appointments, communications with Social Security, and any work attempts. You'll need this if either agency questions your eligibility later.

This is why the system is so broken. People who want to try working again are penalized instead of supported. There should be better programs to help people transition off disability when they're ready.

Final thought - if you do need to talk to Washington ESD about your specific situation, don't waste time trying to call the regular number. Use Claimyr to actually get through to someone who can give you accurate information about how Washington handles these cases. They'll know the state-specific rules better than general online advice.

Just want to add - don't make any decisions without talking to professionals who understand both systems. This isn't something to figure out through trial and error with your benefits on the line.