Washington ESD unemployment benefits - do I qualify for food stamps too?

You can definitely apply for SNAP while getting unemployment! UI benefits count as income but they don't automatically disqualify you. The income limits are pretty reasonable especially with kids.

Yes, unemployment benefits are considered income for SNAP purposes, but they don't exclude you from eligibility. For a household of 3 people, the gross monthly income limit is around $2,500 for SNAP in Washington state. Your UI benefits would count toward this limit, but you'd likely still qualify.

I've been in this exact situation and got approved for both. The key thing is being honest about your unemployment income on the SNAP application. They'll verify it anyway so don't try to hide it.

Actually dealing with DSHS for SNAP while on unemployment can be tricky because they want current income verification. If you're having trouble getting through to Washington ESD for documents, I found this service called Claimyr that helps you actually reach ESD agents on the phone. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

ugh the whole system is so confusing. why can't they just make it simple to apply for help when you need it??

One thing to keep in mind is that if your unemployment benefits end, you'll need to report that change to SNAP right away. Your benefit amount might actually increase once you're not getting UI anymore, depending on your other income.

I applied for SNAP while getting unemployment last year and it was approved within like 2 weeks. The caseworker said unemployment actually makes the application easier because it shows you have a consistent income source, even if it's temporary.

Also don't forget about WIC if your kids are under 5. That's separate from SNAP but you can get both at the same time.

Just to clarify the income calculation - they use your gross monthly income, not what you actually receive after taxes. So if your weekly UI benefit is $487, they'll calculate based on $487 x 4.33 = $2,109 monthly, not whatever you get after taxes are taken out.

The hardest part for me was getting all the required documents together. Make sure you have your Social Security cards for all household members, proof of address, and bank statements. They're pretty thorough.

If you need help getting your benefit verification letter from Washington ESD for the SNAP application, seriously consider using Claimyr. I know I mentioned it before but it really saved me hours of frustration trying to get through on the phone. The system is just so overloaded.

Also remember that if you're actively looking for work (which you have to do for UI anyway), you can use that as evidence of trying to improve your situation. SNAP caseworkers like to see that you're working toward self-sufficiency.

One more tip - if you qualify for SNAP, you might also qualify for reduced-cost internet through the Affordable Connectivity Program. Really helpful when you're trying to job search and manage your unemployment claim online.

this is all good info but man the system is just broken. you shouldn't have to jump through this many hoops just to feed your family

Make sure when you apply for SNAP that you mention you're receiving unemployment benefits right in the application. Don't wait for them to ask - be upfront about it. Makes the whole process smoother.

I got SNAP while on unemployment and my benefits were actually higher than I expected. With two kids, your household size helps a lot with the calculation.

Just apply online at Washington Connection and see what happens. Worst case they say no but at least you'll know for sure. The application itself is free and not too complicated.

My experience with SNAP while on UI was pretty smooth actually. The caseworker understood that unemployment is temporary and they were helpful about explaining how the benefits would change if my situation changed.

Final word of advice - when you do get approved for SNAP, the benefits come on an EBT card that works like a debit card at grocery stores. Super easy to use and nobody really notices or cares. Don't let pride keep you from getting help you need for your kids.

Really glad to see this discussion helped you out. And remember, if you run into any issues getting documents from Washington ESD for your SNAP application, Claimyr can help you actually talk to someone instead of waiting on hold forever. Worth checking out that demo video I mentioned earlier.