Does unemployment cover maternity leave in Washington ESD?

Oh I didn't know about PFML! Is that through Washington ESD too or a different agency?

PFML is administered by Washington ESD but it's a separate program from regular unemployment. You pay into it through payroll deductions just like UI taxes.

That's so frustrating! How long did the adjudication take?

Almost 8 weeks! I kept calling but could never get through to explain my situation properly.

Is that legit? I'm desperate to talk to someone who can explain my options clearly.

Yeah it's real, they basically call for you and get you connected to Washington ESD agents. Saved me hours of trying to get through myself.

Do you know what percentage of wages PFML covers?

It varies based on your income but it's usually around 90% of your average weekly wage up to a maximum amount. Much better than trying to get UI which probably won't work anyway.

No you can't collect both simultaneously. If you lose your job while pregnant, you'd apply for regular UI first, then switch to PFML when the baby comes if you're still unemployed.

This is so complicated! Why can't Washington ESD make this clearer on their website?

That makes sense. So you can be on UI while pregnant but not during actual maternity leave recovery?

Exactly! Being pregnant doesn't disqualify you from UI, but being unable to work due to childbirth/recovery does.

Totally agree! Other countries handle this so much better.

At least Washington has PFML now. It's still relatively new but it's better than nothing.

Good point! I've been at my current job for 2 years so I should qualify.

You should be fine then. The requirement is usually 820 hours in the qualifying period.

Did they help you get through to the right department for PFML questions?

Yes! They connected me directly to a PFML specialist who could answer my questions about overlapping benefits.

That's a good point. I should probably talk to HR about this soon.

Definitely! PFML provides job protection similar to FMLA but your employer needs to understand the process.

Yes! PFML covers both medical leave for recovery and bonding leave. You can take up to 12 weeks total in a year.

That's amazing! I didn't realize Washington had such comprehensive coverage.

Oh wow, so my husband could potentially take PFML leave too?

Yes, as long as he's been paying into the system through his job. Both parents can take PFML but there are limits on how much time total.

Right? So glad I asked! I was about to apply for the wrong thing.

Same here! Going to start my PFML application process soon.

Good to know! I'll start gathering all the paperwork I need.

Yeah, you'll need medical certification from your doctor and some employment documentation. The Washington ESD website has a checklist.

Mine went pretty smoothly actually. Took about 2-3 weeks to get approved once I submitted everything.

That's reassuring! I was worried it would take months like some UI claims do.

Good to know there's a backup option if I can't get through to Washington ESD directly.

Yeah, especially since PFML is newer, sometimes the regular customer service reps don't know all the details.

Glad we could help! PFML is really a game-changer for new parents in Washington.

Seriously, this thread saved me so much confusion and stress. Thank you all!

Definitely learned that lesson! Wish I had known about PFML sooner.

Live and learn! At least now you know what to tell other pregnant friends.

Absolutely! I was so confused when I started researching this.

Maybe they'll improve the website eventually. Until then, forums like this are lifesavers!

Agreed! Real people sharing real experiences is often more helpful than official documentation.