How much can I get unemployment benefits in Washington - what's the maximum?

Thanks! So with my salary that would put me close to the max then. Do you know how they calculate the base period exactly?

Base period is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters before you file. So if you're filing now in 2025, they'd look at your earnings from Q1 2024 through Q4 2024.

20 times?? That's crazy. How long did it take to get your first payment?

took about 3 weeks total once my claim was approved. the waiting was the worst part

Is this legit? Sounds too good to be true with how impossible it is to reach anyone at ESD.

Yeah I was skeptical too but it actually worked. Got through to an agent in like 10 minutes when I'd been trying for days on my own.

Thanks for sharing this! Going to check it out because I've been stuck in adjudication hell for weeks.

What exactly counts as a job contact? Is it just applying online or do I need to actually talk to someone?

Job applications count, but also networking contacts, job interviews, attending job fairs, etc. Keep detailed records because they can audit your search activities.

That's frustrating! Did you ever figure out why it was so much lower than expected?

Something about my base period quarters being uneven. One quarter I made way more due to overtime but others were lower. Really complicated calculation.

Be completely honest about your separation reason. If you were laid off due to lack of work, that's straightforward. Avoid any ambiguity that might trigger adjudication.

yeah be super clear about dates and details. any confusion can send your claim into adjudication limbo

This is exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier - they can help you get through to an adjudication specialist to check on your specific case status. Way better than the generic phone system.

At this point I'm willing to try anything. The uncertainty is worse than just being denied.

Adjudication can take 4-8 weeks depending on complexity. They're reviewing your separation circumstances and employment history to determine eligibility.

Yes, Washington adjusts the maximum annually based on average wages in the state. It's gone up significantly over the past few years.

That makes sense. Glad they keep it current with wage inflation.

Good point! I did have some consulting income last year. Do I need to report that during the application process?

Yes, they'll ask about all income sources during your base period. Better to include everything upfront than deal with overpayment issues later.

How long did the appeal process take?

About 6 weeks total, but it was worth it for the extra money. Had to gather pay stubs and tax documents to prove my earnings.

EXACTLY! They make it so complicated and then take forever to process anything. Meanwhile people are struggling to pay rent.

yeah and good luck getting anyone on the phone to explain what's happening with your claim

I've tried that but keep getting disconnected after waiting for hours.

This is why services like Claimyr are so valuable - they handle the calling and waiting so you don't have to sit there for hours.

Yes, unemployment benefits are taxable income. You can choose to have taxes withheld or pay quarterly estimated taxes. I'd recommend having at least 10% withheld.

Thanks! I'll set up the withholding when I file my claim.

Good advice! What's the best way to track job search activities?

I use a simple spreadsheet with date, company, position, contact method, and result. Makes the weekly claims much easier to complete.

Yes, bonuses paid during your base period quarters count toward your total wages for benefit calculation purposes.

That's helpful - I had a decent bonus last year so that might bump up my weekly amount.

Do I need exact dates of employment or just approximate?

Try to be as exact as possible. They cross-reference with employer records so accuracy matters.

How long did it take to get your appeal hearing scheduled?

About 3 months from filing the appeal to the actual hearing date. Long wait but worth it in the end.

Definitely will do that. Thanks everyone for all the helpful info!

Good luck with your claim! Hope it goes smoothly for you.

Perfect, that gives me a good idea of what to expect. Really appreciate everyone's help!