Can you get unemployment if you get social security in Washington ESD?

Yes, you can collect both social security and unemployment benefits in Washington state. They're separate programs and one doesn't automatically disqualify you from the other. The key is that you have to meet all the regular UI requirements - available for work, actively seeking work, able to work, etc.

I was in the exact same boat last year. 64 years old, collecting SS, got laid off from construction. Washington ESD approved my claim no problem. Just make sure you're genuinely looking for work because they do check up on that.

If you're having trouble getting through to Washington ESD to ask questions about this, I found this service called Claimyr that helps you actually reach a live agent. They have a website at claimyr.com and there's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Made it so much easier when I had questions about my benefits.

The important thing to remember is that while you CAN collect both, you still have to meet the work search requirements. At 63, some people assume they don't have to actively look for work, but Washington ESD requires 3 job search activities per week regardless of your age or social security status.

wait im confused... if you're already getting social security why do you need unemployment too? seems like double dipping to me

One thing to watch out for - if you're collecting social security DISABILITY benefits, that's different from retirement benefits and could affect your UI eligibility since you'd have to certify that you're able to work.

My dad went through this exact situation 3 years ago. He was 65, getting SS retirement, and filed for unemployment when his company downsized. Washington ESD approved him and he collected both for about 6 months until he found another job. No issues at all.

Just a heads up - when you file your initial claim, be prepared for some confusion from the Washington ESD system about your retirement status. Sometimes it flags people collecting SS as potentially not available for work, but you can clarify that during the application process.

The Washington ESD website has a whole section about this under their eligibility requirements. Worth reading through before you apply so you know what to expect.

I tried calling Washington ESD about this same question last month and could never get through. Ended up using that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier and finally got to talk to an actual person who confirmed you can collect both.

Don't forget to keep track of every penny you make from any source when you file your weekly claims. Even though SS retirement probably won't affect your UI benefits, you still need to report it accurately.

ugh the whole system is so confusing. why cant they just make this stuff simple and clear on their website instead of making people guess

My understanding is that Washington state is pretty generous about letting people collect both compared to some other states. You should be fine as long as you meet the standard UI requirements.

Make sure you file sooner rather than later. There's usually a waiting week before benefits kick in, and you can't backdate your claim to before you actually filed.

One more thing - if they ask about retirement during your claim, just be honest about your situation. You're not trying to hide anything, you're just collecting benefits you're entitled to from both programs.

Good luck with your claim! Sounds like you have a straightforward situation and shouldn't run into any major roadblocks with Washington ESD.