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Niko Ramsey

Is diabetes a disability for Washington ESD unemployment benefits?

I've been dealing with Type 1 diabetes for over 10 years and recently lost my job due to some health complications that required frequent doctor visits. My former employer said it was due to 'excessive absences' but I had documentation from my endocrinologist. Now I'm filing for unemployment with Washington ESD and wondering if diabetes counts as a disability that might affect my claim? I'm able to work but need flexibility for medical appointments and blood sugar management. Has anyone dealt with this situation before?

Diabetes itself doesn't automatically disqualify you from unemployment benefits in Washington. What matters is whether you're able and available for work. If you can perform job duties with reasonable accommodations, you should qualify for regular UI benefits.

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That's what I was hoping to hear. I can definitely work, just need understanding employers about medical needs.

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yeah my cousin has diabetes and got unemployment no problem last year

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The key distinction Washington ESD makes is between 'able and available' versus 'unable to work due to disability'. If your diabetes prevents you from working entirely, you'd need to apply for disability benefits instead. But if you can work with accommodations, regular unemployment should be fine.

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I can definitely work, my previous employer just wasn't understanding about medical appointments. Good to know I'm on the right track with regular UI.

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This is really important info. I was worried about mentioning my health condition on my claim but sounds like it shouldn't be an issue if I can still work.

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I had a similar situation with a chronic condition and getting through to Washington ESD to explain was impossible. Kept getting disconnected after waiting hours. Finally used Claimyr (claimyr.com) which actually got me connected to an agent who could review my case properly. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

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Really? I've been trying to call for days with no luck. How does that service work exactly?

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It basically handles the calling and waiting for you, then connects you when an agent is available. Saved me hours of frustration and I got my questions answered quickly.

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Never heard of that but sounds useful. Washington ESD phone system is terrible.

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WAIT - if you were fired for 'excessive absences' that might be misconduct which could disqualify you from benefits entirely! Did you provide medical documentation to your employer beforehand?

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Yes I provided documentation from my doctor multiple times. I think I have a good case that it wasn't misconduct since it was medical related.

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Medical absences with proper documentation typically aren't considered misconduct, especially if the employer failed to provide reasonable accommodations.

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Good point about accommodations. That could actually strengthen your case.

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I'm dealing with something similar - not diabetes but another chronic condition. Been worried about how to answer the health questions on the weekly claims. Do you disclose the condition or just focus on being able to work?

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Be honest but focus on your ability to work. You can mention accommodations needed without going into detailed medical history.

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That's my plan too. I can work, just need employers who understand medical needs aren't a choice.

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my diabetes has never been an issue with unemployment. filed last year and this year, no problems. just answer that you're able to work and available for suitable employment

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Thanks for sharing your experience! That makes me feel more confident about my claim.

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Same here, had no issues with my chronic condition and unemployment benefits.

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Important note: if your claim gets flagged for adjudication because of the termination circumstances, make sure you have all your medical documentation ready. Washington ESD will want to see that your absences were legitimate and that you can still perform work.

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I've got all my doctor's notes and communication with HR saved. Hopefully that's enough if they need to review it.

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Adjudication can take weeks though, so be prepared for delays if they need to investigate the separation.

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Ugh, I was hoping to avoid that but better to be prepared. Thanks for the heads up.

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THE UNEMPLOYMENT SYSTEM IS SO BROKEN! They make it impossible to get through on the phone and then question everything. It's like they don't want to help people who actually need it.

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I hear you but complaining doesn't really help OP with their specific question...

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Fair point, just frustrated with the whole system. OP should definitely document everything.

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Has anyone had luck with the WorkSourceWA job search requirements when you have medical limitations? I'm worried about finding employers who will accommodate diabetes management.

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You still need to meet the job search requirements, but you can focus on employers known to be disability-friendly or remote work options that offer more flexibility.

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Good question - I hadn't thought about that aspect yet. Remote work might be a good option for both of us.

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Yeah, I'm hoping remote positions will be more understanding about medical needs.

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I tried using that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier and it actually worked! Got through to Washington ESD in about 30 minutes instead of hours of busy signals. Agent was really helpful explaining how medical conditions affect eligibility.

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That's great to hear! I might try it if I run into issues with my claim. Was it expensive?

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Worth it for the time saved alone. Check out their demo video to see if it's right for your situation.

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Just want to add - keep detailed records of all your medical appointments and communications with employers. If Washington ESD questions your availability for work, you'll want proof that you're managing your condition responsibly while remaining employable.

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Great advice! I've been keeping everything but will make sure it's well organized in case they need to review it.

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Documentation is key for any unemployment claim, especially when health issues are involved.

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For what it's worth, I know several people with diabetes who have received unemployment benefits without issues. The main thing is demonstrating you can work despite your condition.

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That's reassuring to hear. I think I'm overthinking this - I can definitely work, just need reasonable employers.

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Exactly! Focus on your abilities, not limitations.

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One thing to watch out for - if your claim goes to adjudication, they might ask detailed questions about your medical condition and work capacity. Be prepared to explain how you can meet job requirements with or without accommodations.

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Good point. I should probably write down some key points about how I manage my condition at work so I'm prepared if they ask.

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That's smart preparation. Having clear examples of your work capabilities will strengthen your case.

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Bottom line: diabetes doesn't disqualify you from unemployment as long as you're able and available for work. Your termination circumstances might be reviewed, but medical documentation should support your case. Don't let the condition itself worry you about eligibility.

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Thank you all for the responses! I feel much more confident about moving forward with my claim now.

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Good luck with everything! Sounds like you have a solid case.

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I really appreciate everyone taking the time to share their experiences and advice. This community is incredibly helpful!

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