Self-employed Instacart worker - can I get ESD unemployment for health issues?

Unfortunately, regular unemployment benefits generally don't cover self-employed workers unless you've paid into the unemployment insurance system through an employer. As an independent contractor for Instacart, you typically wouldn't qualify for traditional UI benefits through ESD. However, you might want to look into Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML) instead - it's a different program that sometimes covers self-employed individuals if you've opted in and paid premiums. Have you contributed to that program?

I think ur WRONG about that!! During COVID they had special unemployment for gig workers. My roomate was a doordash driver and got benefits!!!

This happened to me last year! I was doing Uber and got sick. I tried filing for unemployment and got DENIED. They told me I didn't have any "covered employment" whatever that means. It SUCKS but gig workers basically have zero safety net unless you pay for private disability insurance (which I wish I had done).

Employment Security Department specialist here. The previous responders are correct that traditional unemployment benefits typically don't apply to self-employed individuals like Instacart shoppers. Here are some alternatives you might consider: 1. Check if you qualify for the state's Basic Food program 2. Apply for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) if you meet income requirements 3. Contact DSHS to see what health-related assistance you might qualify for 4. Look into WorkSource emergency assistance programs Regarding Paid Family Medical Leave (PFML), self-employed individuals had to opt in through the Employment Security Department website and been paying premiums for at least 12 months before qualifying. You can check your status by logging into the PFML section of the ESD website.

I was in a similar situation last year with health issues while doing gig work. After HOURS of trying to get through to different assistance programs, I finally used Claimyr to reach an agent at DSHS. It worked great - got through to someone in like 15 minutes instead of waiting for hours or getting hung up on. Their site is claimyr.com and they have a demo video here: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ?si=26TzE_zGms-DODN3 They can also help you reach ESD if needed, though in your case DSHS might be more helpful for immediate assistance based on health issues.

EVERYONE SAYING YOU CANT GET BENEFITS IS WRONG!!!! You CAN apply for unemployment if you paid taxes on your Instacart income. The ESD people will TRY to deny you but you need to FIGHT it! My cousin went through this whole thing and won an appeal because he could prove he reported all his gig income properly on his taxes. DON'T GIVE UP WITHOUT FIGHTING!!!!

Have you looked into disability insurance? Not through ESD, but actual disability benefits through Social Security if your health condition is severe enough? It's not an immediate solution but might be an option if you're going to be out of work for a longer period.

hey what about the hospitals financial assistance??? my friend got her medcal bills completely covered when she couldnt work! most people dont know about this but hospitals have to offfer financial aid if u ask!!

One more thing I forgot to mention - check with your city or county for emergency rental assistance if housing costs are your biggest concern. Many localities have programs specifically designed to prevent homelessness by providing short-term rental help.

I'm really sorry to hear about your health struggles, Michael. As others have mentioned, regular unemployment benefits unfortunately don't cover independent contractors like Instacart shoppers. However, I wanted to add a few more resources that might help: 1. Contact 211 (dial 2-1-1) - they can connect you with local emergency assistance programs for utilities, food, and rent 2. Check if your area has a Community Action Agency - they often have emergency assistance funds 3. Look into local food banks to help reduce your grocery expenses while you recover 4. Some churches and community organizations also have emergency assistance funds, even if you're not a member Also, don't forget to reach out to Instacart directly - while they don't provide traditional benefits, they sometimes have hardship programs or resources for shoppers facing emergencies. It's worth asking. Hope you get the help you need and recover quickly!

Hey Michael, I went through something similar about 6 months ago when I was doing DoorDash and had to stop working due to a back injury. The reality is tough - as gig workers we really don't have the same safety net as traditional employees. One thing that really helped me was applying for Washington Apple Health (Medicaid) if you don't already have it - at least that covered my medical expenses while I was out of work. Also, many counties have emergency cash assistance programs that aren't well-publicized but can help with immediate needs like rent and utilities. I'd also suggest checking with local churches and nonprofits even if you're not religious - many have discretionary funds for people in crisis situations, no questions asked. The Salvation Army and Catholic Community Services often have emergency assistance programs too. Hang in there, and definitely pursue all the resources Jessica and others mentioned. It's a frustrating system but there are people and programs out there to help bridge the gap while you recover.