


Ask the community...
For future reference, if anyone needs to actually speak with a Washington ESD representative about PFML or any other benefits, that Claimyr service mentioned earlier really does work. I was skeptical at first but when you're stuck and need answers, it's worth having options.
This has been such a helpful thread! I'm saving this for when my sister goes on maternity leave next year. Had no idea about the difference between UI and PFML.
FYI the Washington ESD website has all this information but it's buried in different sections. The maximum benefit amount is posted in their benefits table but you have to dig around to find it. Would be nice if they made it more prominent since it's such a common question.
One last thing - if you think your benefit calculation is wrong, you can appeal it. I had to do this when they miscalculated my wages from one employer. Took a few weeks but they corrected it and I got back pay for the difference.
Important reminder: if you had taxes withheld from your unemployment benefits during the year, that will show up in Box 4 of your 1099-G. Make sure to claim that as taxes paid when you file.
Pro tip: if you're close to qualifying for a higher benefit amount, it might be worth waiting a few weeks to file if you have a high-earning quarter coming up in your base year calculation.
This is good advice but you have to be really careful with timing. You can only delay so long after becoming unemployed, and you need to make sure you're still eligible when you do file.
thanks everyone for all the info! this thread has been super helpful in understanding how the benefit amounts work. at least now i know what to expect when i file my claim
Giovanni Mancini
Here's the step by step process: 1) Gather all your documents 2) Create SAW account 3) File initial claim at esd.wa.gov 4) Register with WorkSourceWA 5) File weekly claims every Sunday 6) Complete reemployment plan 7) Do job search activities 8) Report any work/income. That covers the basics.
0 coins
Chloe Anderson
•You're welcome! The process seems overwhelming at first but once you get into the routine it's manageable.
0 coins
Fatima Al-Suwaidi
•Good luck with your claim! Don't hesitate to ask if you run into any issues along the way.
0 coins
Dylan Cooper
Just remember that if you do get stuck anywhere in the process, getting an actual human at Washington ESD to help can make all the difference. Don't spend weeks spinning your wheels if something isn't working right.
0 coins
Omar Hassan
•Definitely keeping that Claimyr option in mind if I run into problems.
0 coins
CosmicCruiser
•Smart move. I wish I had known about it earlier - would have saved me so much stress and time.
0 coins