Can you file for unemployment and disability at the same time? This is a tough question to answer. Some Social Security judges see a conflict between filing for unemployment and disability at the same time. When you file for unemployment, you represent that you are ready, willing, and able to work. When you file for Social Security disability, you are saying that you are unable to work. Other Social Security judges do not make an issue out of receiving unemployment benefits while applying for disability benefits. We cannot predict in advance who your judge may be and how they might feel about you receiving unemployment benefits. Ultimately, you need to do what’s best for you and your family, but it is essential that you provide Social Security and other government agencies with honest and truthful answers to any questions you are asked when applying for disability benefits.
