How much do you draw on unemployment - Washington ESD benefit amounts?

Thanks! So if my highest quarter was like $15,000, that would be about $577 divided by 26 weeks, then 60% of that? That seems low.

Not quite - you divide the $15,000 by 26 to get your average weekly wage, then multiply by 0.6 or 0.65 depending on your income level. So $15,000/26 = $577, then $577 x 0.6 = about $346 per week.

Did you have to wait long to find out your benefit amount? I'm worried about the adjudication process taking forever.

took about 2 weeks for mine to get approved and see the weekly amount. no adjudication issues though

This is so confusing! Why can't they just have a simple calculator on their website?

They do have a benefit calculator tool on the Washington ESD website, but it's pretty basic. The actual calculation involves multiple factors including dependents allowances if you qualify.

I looked at their calculator but it seemed outdated. Are the 2025 rates different from last year?

Never heard of that service. Does it actually work or is it just another scam?

It's legitimate - they basically handle the calling process for you and get you connected when an agent is available. Saved me probably 10+ hours of trying to call myself.

Might have to try that if I can't get through the normal way. The phone lines are always busy when I've tried calling.

That sucks! Did you appeal the decision? You should be able to fight that if you have documentation of the layoff.

yeah im appealing but its taking months. meanwhile no income and bills piling up. the system is broken

Make sure you have your layoff paperwork ready when you file. A clear separation notice from your employer helps avoid those kinds of issues.

That range sounds about right based on what others are saying. Is there anything I can do to maximize my benefit amount when I apply?

Make sure all your wages are properly reported in the system. Sometimes employers don't report quarterly wages correctly and it can affect your base period calculation.

I don't have kids but good to know for others reading this thread.

Wait, there's a dependent allowance? I have two kids and didn't know about this when I filed last year!

yeah you have to specifically request it when you file or contact them to add it. they dont automatically include it

What kind of verification issues? I want to make sure I don't run into the same problems.

They couldn't verify my employment dates with my old company's HR department. Had to submit pay stubs and my W-2 to prove my wages and work history.

This is why I keep all my pay stubs and employment documents organized. You never know when you'll need them for unemployment claims.

So if I get $350 per week, I could potentially collect that for 26 weeks total? That would be about $9,100 maximum?

Exactly, assuming you don't find work before then and continue to meet all the eligibility requirements like job search activities.

Yeah I've heard about that. Do you have to use WorkSourceWA or can you apply anywhere?

you can apply anywhere but they want you to register with WorkSourceWA and use their resources too. keep detailed records of every application

I did some weekend delivery driving last year. Should I include that when I file my claim?

Yes, definitely include all earnings. If you got a 1099 for the delivery work, that counts toward your base period wages and could increase your benefit amount.

I know right? Other states have much clearer benefit calculators. Washington's system seems needlessly complex.

exactly! and then when you try to call with questions you can never get through to a human

Thanks for the advice! I'll make sure to have all my employment info ready before I start the application.

This is solid advice. I made a small mistake on my application and it took 6 weeks to get it sorted out through adjudication.

How does that service work exactly? Do they charge a lot?

You sign up on their website and they handle the calling process for you. When they get an agent on the line, they conference you in. Much less stressful than spending hours on hold.

Interesting, I might try that if I have issues with my claim. The regular phone system is basically useless.

Good point about timing. I was laid off last Friday so I should probably file this week.

Yes, file as soon as possible. The sooner you file, the sooner your benefit year starts and you can begin receiving payments.

Unfortunately I don't have much savings, which is why I'm stressed about how much I'll get and how long it will take.

Look into local food banks and assistance programs while you're waiting. Many communities have resources for people between jobs.

good advice. also check if your city has emergency utility assistance programs in case your benefits are delayed

How do you know if they calculated it wrong? Is there a way to double-check their math?

You can request a copy of your wage records from ESD and compare it to your own records. If there are missing wages or incorrect amounts, that's grounds for an appeal.

Sounds like that service is really helpful for getting through to agents. I'll definitely keep that in mind if I have issues.

Yeah, wish I had known about it sooner. Would have saved me so much frustration and wasted time.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful info! I feel much more prepared to file my claim now. Really appreciate all the advice and warnings about potential issues to watch out for.

Good luck with your claim! Hope everything goes smoothly and you find a new job soon.