How much does Washington ESD disaster unemployment pay in 2025?

Thanks! Do I apply the same way as regular unemployment or is there a separate process?

There's usually a separate application process for DUA. Check the Washington ESD website for disaster-specific forms, or call them directly since disaster benefits have different eligibility requirements than regular UI.

How long did it take to get your first payment? I'm worried about bills piling up.

took about 3 weeks after I submitted all the paperwork. make sure you have photos of damage and a letter from your employer

How much does something like that cost? I'm already strapped for cash.

I found it worth it considering how impossible it is to reach Washington ESD normally. Way cheaper than losing weeks of benefits waiting.

That might be helpful, I've been trying to call for two days straight with no luck.

What if I was working part-time at the restaurant? Will that affect how much I get?

Yes, part-time wages will result in lower benefits since it's calculated from your earnings history. But you might still qualify if you meet the minimum earnings threshold.

Did you have to file with FEMA first or can you do DUA separately?

You can do DUA separately but having FEMA documentation helps speed up the process. They cross-reference disaster declarations.

DUA is for people who lose work due to federally declared disasters. Regular UI is for job loss due to layoffs, termination, etc. Different programs with different eligibility rules.

oh that makes sense thanks

The restaurant is still open but I can't get there because of road damage and my car got flooded. Does that count as regular unemployment?

That sounds more like a DUA situation since your inability to work is directly disaster-related, not employer-initiated separation.

RIGHT?? The website is terrible for finding specific info. Everything is buried in PDFs or doesn't load properly.

This is exactly why I ended up using Claimyr - couldn't find answers online and couldn't get through on the phone. At least with their service I got to talk to an actual Washington ESD person.

Do you know what the deadline is? This just happened a few days ago.

I think you have 30 days from when the disaster is declared but don't quote me on that. Better call Washington ESD to be sure.

Any insider tips on getting through the application process faster?

Have all your documentation ready before you start the application. Missing paperwork is the #1 cause of delays. And be persistent with follow-up calls.

LOL good luck with those follow-up calls, Washington ESD phone system is a nightmare

No, DUA typically waives job search requirements since your inability to work is disaster-related and temporary. But you still need to file weekly claims.

That's a relief, I was worried about having to apply for jobs when I can't even get to my current job.

Same here! I've been trying for three days to ask about my adjudication status.

This is when services like Claimyr are worth their weight in gold. They handle the calling hassle and you just get a callback when they reach someone.

My employer didn't lay me off, I just can't physically get to work because of the flooding. Sounds like DUA is the right choice then.

Exactly, that's a classic DUA situation. Keep documentation showing you're still employed but unable to work due to disaster conditions.

Yeah I wasn't making anywhere near that much. Probably looking at closer to the minimum.

The calculation is roughly 60% of your average weekly wage from your highest earning quarter, with the $295-$999 range as the floor and ceiling.

You can get both - FEMA assistance is for property damage and immediate needs, DUA is for lost wages. They serve different purposes.

good to know thanks

Did you have to keep filing weekly claims even when you couldn't work?

Yes, you still file weekly claims but you report that you're unable to work due to disaster rather than looking for work. Different questions on the weekly claim form.

I'm going to start the application tomorrow. This thread has been really helpful, thank you everyone!

Good luck! And don't get discouraged if it takes a while - disaster benefits are worth the wait.

That's good to know. I was thinking about looking for something temporary just in case.

Yeah, temporary work won't disqualify you from DUA as long as your regular job is still inaccessible due to the disaster.

I'll definitely consider it if I can't get through on my own. Thanks for the recommendation!

Anything beats sitting on hold for hours just to get disconnected