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Final thought - if you're comparing states for unemployment benefits, look at the total package: weekly amount, duration, taxes, ease of filing, job search requirements, and local job market. Washington scores well on all these factors, which is why it consistently ranks high in national comparisons.
Thanks everyone for all the insights! This thread turned out to be incredibly helpful. Sounds like Washington ESD benefits are definitely competitive nationally, and when you factor in no state income tax and a good job market, it's hard to beat. I'll stick with my current claim and focus on the job search here.
And remember, if you ever need to reach Washington ESD for any reason, claimyr.com can help you get through when the phones are busy. Best of luck!
Last tip - if you find a job while collecting benefits, report it immediately on your weekly claim. You might still get partial benefits depending on your earnings. Don't try to hide work income!
You've got this! Being laid off sucks but at least Washington has decent unemployment benefits compared to some states. File today and don't let the bureaucracy intimidate you.
I tried using that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier and it actually worked! Finally got through to Washington ESD and confirmed my benefit amount. Definitely recommend it if you're stuck trying to reach them.
Just to summarize for anyone else reading - Washington ESD maximum weekly unemployment benefit is $999 for 2025, based on your highest quarter earnings in your base period, subject to meeting minimum wage requirements. You can have 10% federal tax withheld if you want.
I remember being so nervous about filing my first claim. Thought I was going to mess something up and get in trouble. But honestly the online application isn't too bad, just take your time and read everything carefully. You can always call if you have questions, though good luck getting through lol
Ha! Yeah the phone situation is ridiculous. I tried calling Washington ESD like 50 times before giving up and just figuring things out myself. Some people have better luck with that Claimyr thing but I managed without it.
Good luck with your claim! The whole process seems overwhelming at first but once you get approved and get into the routine of filing weekly claims, it becomes pretty automatic. Just stay on top of your job search and keep good records.
NebulaNova
One more tip - if you work any hours or earn any money during a week, report it honestly on your weekly claim. They'll reduce your benefits accordingly but won't disqualify you unless you earn too much.
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Mateo Hernandez
•What counts as 'too much' though?
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NebulaNova
•Generally if you earn more than 1.5 times your weekly benefit amount, you get no benefits that week. But always report the income anyway.
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Aisha Khan
The whole process stressed me out so much when I first filed. Just take it one step at a time and don't panic if something seems confusing. The system works, it's just not user-friendly.
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QuantumQuest
•Thanks everyone for all the help! I feel much more confident about filing now.
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Ethan Taylor
•You got this! Just remember to file your weekly claims religiously once you get started.
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