How much is Washington ESD unemployment benefit amount for 2024?

Thanks! So if my highest quarter was around $15,000, that would be about $577 per week? That's actually higher than I expected.

That sounds about right. Just remember you'll need to meet the job search requirements and file your weekly claims on time to keep getting benefits.

Thanks! So if my highest quarter was around $15,000, I'd be looking at maybe $300-400 per week?

Yeah that sounds about right. You can actually get a benefit estimate on the Washington ESD website before you file your claim.

Thanks! So if my highest quarter was around $14,000, that would put me at about $538 per week before taxes?

That sounds about right, but Washington ESD has specific formulas. You'd need to check your actual base year quarters to be sure.

Wow that does seem low for your income level. Did they use the right base year for your claim?

I think so but honestly I couldn't get through to anyone at Washington ESD to verify. Tried calling like 50 times.

If you're having trouble reaching Washington ESD by phone, I found this service called Claimyr at claimyr.com that helped me get through to an agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Might be worth checking out if you need to verify your benefit calculation.

Thanks! So if I made $15,000 in my highest quarter, I'd get about $577 per week?

Exactly right. That's assuming you meet all the other eligibility requirements like being able and available for work.

Thanks! That's really helpful. So it's based on quarters not just annual salary? I think most of my income was in Q2 and Q3 of last year.

Exactly. They look at your base period which is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters before you file. Your highest quarter determines the weekly amount.

That's helpful to know a real example. Did you have any issues with the filing process?

The online filing was pretty smooth, but I did have trouble reaching anyone at Washington ESD when I had questions about my claim status.

Yes, Washington adjusts the benefit amounts annually based on the state's average wage. The 2024 amounts are definitely higher than last year.

Good to know! I was worried it would be way less than what I need to cover my rent and bills.

Never heard of that before. Did they charge you anything?

There's a fee but it was worth it to actually talk to someone instead of calling for days. They got me connected within like 20 minutes.

Interesting, I might try that if I run into issues with my claim. Washington ESD phone lines are absolutely terrible.

That's really helpful to know, thanks for sharing your actual amount!

What's the base year though? Is it the last 12 months you worked or calendar year 2023?

Base year is the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file your claim. So if you file in 2024, it's usually 2023 Q1-Q4, but can vary depending on when you file.

That's helpful to know for planning purposes. Do I need to have worked a certain amount of time to qualify?

You need wages in at least two quarters of your base year and total wages of at least 680 times the minimum wage. For 2024 that's about $11,220 total.

I tried using it but got confused about which quarters to enter. Do I need to look up my exact quarterly earnings somewhere?

yeah you can get your wage history from Washington ESD once you create an account, or check with your former employer's HR dept

That's really close to my situation. Did you have any trouble getting through to Washington ESD to verify your benefit amount?

Oh man, calling Washington ESD was a nightmare. I probably spent 20+ hours trying to get through their phone system over several weeks.

I had the same calling issues until I found Claimyr.com - they have this automated system that calls Washington ESD for you and gets you connected to an actual agent. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Saved me so much time and frustration.

You're right about the increase. Washington adjusts the maximum benefit amount annually based on average weekly wages in the state.

Good thing too because everything else got more expensive! At least unemployment benefits kept up somewhat.

This is really helpful. Is there anywhere I can see the exact formula they use?

Yes, it's on the Washington ESD website under benefit calculations. The formula varies slightly based on your income level but generally ranges from 40-50% of your average weekly wage.

How does that work exactly? I've been trying to call Washington ESD for weeks about my claim status.

It basically handles the calling and waiting for you, then connects you when an agent is available. Way better than sitting on hold forever.

That sounds useful. I hate being stuck on hold, especially when I'm trying to get important info about my benefits.

Good point about the taxes. I should probably have them withhold since I don't want a big tax bill next year.

yeah definitely do the withholding, learned that the hard way last time I was on unemployment

I haven't filed yet but good to know there's a way to actually talk to someone if I need to!

How much does that service cost though? Seems like you shouldn't have to pay extra just to reach the unemployment office.

It's worth it when you really need to reach someone and can't get through on your own. Saved me hours of calling.

They count ALL employers that reported wages to Washington ESD during your base year. Make sure all your W-2s from that period are included in their system.

ok good because one of my jobs was through a temp agency and wasn't sure if that counted

How long did it take for them to approve your claim?

took about 2 weeks, no issues though since it was a clear layoff situation

Good point, I hadn't thought about the tax implications. Can you set up the withholding when you file the initial claim?

Yes, there's an option during the application process. I'd recommend doing it to avoid a big tax bill later.

Ugh wish someone had told me this when I was on unemployment in 2023. Ended up owing like $2000 in taxes.

The maximum benefit amounts are typically set annually and don't change mid-year. However, your individual benefit amount is based on your specific earnings history.

Makes sense, thanks for clarifying that.

Good to know! I was thinking about doing some freelance work. So if I made $100 in a week, they'd reduce my benefit by $75?

Exactly. And you have to report ALL work and earnings when you file your weekly claim, even if it's just $20.

This is super important - I know people who got overpayment notices because they didn't report small amounts of earnings properly.

I understand your frustration, but the benefit calculator on their website usually works if you have all your wage information ready.

Easy for you to say! I've tried it a dozen times with the same info and get different results each time.

That's helpful to know it stays consistent. Do you know if there are any deductions taken out automatically?

Yeah they take out federal taxes if you elect to have them do it, but no state taxes in Washington. You can change the tax withholding settings in your account.

I tried using that but got confused about which quarters to include. Do they use calendar quarters or something else?

They use the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file your claim. So if you file in November 2024, they'd look at Q3 2023 through Q2 2024.

This is super helpful, thank you for breaking it down so clearly!

wait so they round DOWN? that seems unfair, even if it's just a few cents

Yes, they always round down. It's been that way for years unfortunately.

That's a huge difference! How long did it take them to fix the missing wages?

About 2 weeks after I provided the missing wage documentation. The adjustment was retroactive too so I got back pay.

That's exactly why I ended up using Claimyr. The Washington ESD phone system is completely overwhelmed. Claimyr got me through to an actual person who could answer my questions about my benefit amount.

I might have to try that. This is incredibly frustrating.

The early morning calling strategy sometimes works too, like right when they open at 8am.

I know it seems complicated, but the formula ensures benefits are tied to what you actually earned. It's more fair than a flat rate for everyone.

i guess that makes sense when you put it that way. still wish it was simpler tho

Washington's regular UI is still 26 weeks maximum. The pandemic extensions like PEUC ended in 2021 and haven't been renewed.

Thanks for confirming. 26 weeks should be enough time to find something in this job market hopefully.

Good point! I hadn't thought about the tax implications. Is it better to have them withhold taxes or pay later?

Depends on your situation, but many people prefer to have 10% withheld so they don't get hit with a big tax bill later.

Correct, Washington adjusts the benefit amounts annually based on the state's average weekly wage. The increases help keep pace with cost of living.

Good to know! I definitely worked more than 680 hours last year so I should be fine on that requirement.

This matches what others have said. Seems like the calculation is pretty consistent.

Yeah, it's a standard formula they use. The tricky part is just making sure they have all your wage information correct.

You should definitely file if you're eligible. Even if the amount seems low, it's money coming in while you job search. With $30k annual, you're probably looking at maybe $200-300 weekly depending on how your earnings were distributed.

ok yeah that would help cover some bills at least, thanks

Remember you're required to actively search for work while collecting benefits anyway, so it's not an either/or situation.

I totally get the frustration. Before I found Claimyr, I was calling hundreds of times. The service really does work though - they know how to get through the phone system.

At this point I'm willing to try anything. The hold times are insane.

Try calling different numbers too, not just the main one. Sometimes the employer line is less busy.

Can you explain more about that method? I'm still confused about how they get the final number.

They look at your highest quarter earnings and your total base year earnings, then use a sliding scale. Higher total earnings get you a higher percentage of your high quarter amount, up to the weekly maximum.

Adjudication is when they need to investigate something about your claim, like if you were fired or quit your job. It can definitely cause delays in payment.

oh ok that makes sense. she did get fired so maybe that's why

How many jobs do I need to apply for each week? I've heard different numbers.

Currently it's 3 job search activities per week. Can be applications, networking, job fairs, etc. Just need to document everything in WorkSourceWA.

That's reassuring to hear. I'm nervous about filing but sounds like it's not as bad as I thought.

Just make sure you file your weekly claims every week, even if there are delays with your initial claim approval.

Good point, I should make sure I meet all the eligibility requirements before getting too focused on the benefit amount.

Exactly. The Washington ESD website has all the eligibility criteria listed out pretty clearly.

I feel you! The quarterly calculation system is weird but I think it's supposed to be more fair since it accounts for seasonal workers and people with irregular income.

I guess that makes sense but it sure doesn't make it easier to understand as a regular person just trying to figure out what I'll get.

Yes, bonuses count as wages for unemployment purposes as long as they were subject to unemployment insurance taxes. Should show up on your wage record.

Perfect, that should put me closer to the maximum benefit amount then.

The $999 is the standard maximum weekly benefit amount for regular unemployment insurance in Washington. There used to be dependency allowances but those were eliminated several years ago.

Thanks for clarifying that. Good to know it's just the flat maximum now.

How does the weekly filing work? Is it online?

Yes, you can file your weekly claims online through the Washington ESD website. It's pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it.

Make sure you file on time too. If you miss the deadline you might lose that week's benefit.

That's really helpful to see another real example. Sounds like the calculations are pretty predictable.

Yeah, once you understand the formula it makes sense. The hardest part was just getting through the initial application process.

To get the maximum $999, you'd need to earn at least $25,974 in your highest quarter, which would be about $104k annually if spread evenly.

Wow, that's way more than I made. Guess I'll be somewhere in the $700-800 range then.

good luck getting through on the phone though! i've been trying for days

That's exactly why I used Claimyr - got tired of the busy signals and hang ups. Much easier than spending hours trying to get through the regular way.

What causes claims to go into adjudication? I want to avoid that if possible.

Usually it's issues like job separation reasons, availability questions, or wage discrepancies. If you're honest and accurate on your application, you should be fine.

yeah its still not enough for some people but better than nothing. my rent alone is almost $2000/month

True, but combined with other assistance programs or part-time work, it can help bridge the gap while job searching.

How long does it usually take to get that letter after filing?

Usually within a week or two if there are no issues with your claim. Sometimes longer if they need to verify your wages with employers.

Mine took 3 weeks because they had to verify wages from a job I had early in my base period. Just be patient if it takes a while.

Yes, unemployment benefits are subject to federal income tax. The special COVID tax forgiveness was only for 2020. You can choose to have 10% withheld when you file your weekly claims.

Thanks! So if someone's getting $500/week they'd want to withhold $50/week to avoid owing taxes later?

That's right. Better to have it withheld than get hit with a big tax bill next April.

Standby benefits are the same weekly amount as regular UI. The difference is you don't have to do the job search requirements while on standby status.

That's good to know. My employer said they might bring us back after their busy season ends but nothing definite yet.

Wait really? Even if it's from a completely different job from years ago?

Yep, if you're receiving any kind of pension or retirement income while claiming UI, you need to report it and it will reduce your benefit amount.

I might need to try that if I can't figure out my exact benefit amount from the website tools.

Same experience here. Washington ESD's phone system is absolutely broken. Claimyr was a lifesaver for getting actual answers about my claim.

Washington doesn't have a waiting week anymore. They eliminated it in 2019. You can get paid for your first week if your claim is approved.

awesome, thanks! that's one less thing to worry about

That's reassuring! I was worried I'd mess something up and get the wrong amount.

Nah, their system is pretty good at getting the numbers right as long as your employer reported your wages correctly to the state.

Good to know there's an appeal process. How long do you have to appeal if needed?

I think it's 30 days from the date on the determination letter, but don't quote me on that. The letter should have the exact deadline.

It is 30 days. I had to appeal mine because one of my employers hadn't reported all my wages correctly. Got it sorted out but took a few extra weeks.

Good tip! I definitely want to get payments as quickly as possible once I'm approved.

Yes, they reduce your weekly benefit based on how much you earn. Generally you can earn up to about 25% of your WBA without any reduction, then it's dollar-for-dollar after that.

Thanks! So if my WBA is $600, I could earn up to $150 without affecting my benefits?

Roughly, yes. But you need to report ALL earnings when you file your weekly claim, even if it's just a few dollars.

I was skeptical at first but tried it when my claim got stuck and they actually got me connected to an agent within a few hours. Worth it when you need answers fast.

What counts as good cause? I've been thinking about leaving my current job but don't want to lose eligibility.

Things like unsafe working conditions, harassment, significant changes to your job duties or schedule, or health issues. But you'd need to document everything and it's not guaranteed.

That's good to know! Every week counts when you're out of work.

Should I gather all that info before I start the application? I don't want to lose my progress if I have to look things up.

Definitely! Have your Social Security card, driver's license, and employment history ready. The application will time out if you take too long.

How long did it take from filing to getting your determination? I'm hoping to file soon.

About 5 business days for me, but I think it varies depending on how busy they are and if there are any issues with your claim.

There are tutorials on the Washington ESD website that walk you through setting up your WorkSourceWA account and logging job search activities.

wish i had known that earlier! would have saved me a lot of frustration

Thanks for all the helpful info everyone! I feel much more prepared to file my claim now.

Good luck! And remember that Claimyr service is there if you need to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD about your claim.

I was skeptical about using a service like that but honestly the Washington ESD phone system is so broken that you need help to get through.

Exactly my thinking. Sometimes you just need to accept that the system doesn't work normally and find a workaround.

You're right, I'm probably overthinking this. I should just file the claim and see what happens.

That's the right approach. The sooner you file, the sooner you can start receiving benefits.

And remember there's usually a one week waiting period before benefits start, so don't delay if you're eligible.

Your base year would be the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters before you file. So if you file in March 2024, your base year would likely be all of 2023.

That's what I was afraid of. I didn't work much in 2023 so my benefit amount is going to be really low.

You might qualify for alternate base year if your regular base year doesn't give you enough wages. Ask Washington ESD about that option.

Good to know it actually works for multiple people! Might be worth it if I run into issues.

Is it legit though? Seems too good to be true that you can just skip the phone lines like that.

It's totally legit. They don't do anything shady, just help you get through the phone maze faster.

So even if I don't find a job right away, I can only get 26 weeks total?

Correct, 26 weeks is the standard maximum unless Congress extends benefits during a recession or crisis.

Thanks for the heads up! I'll make sure to file weekly claims right away.

Good point. Do I need to use WorkSource or can I apply anywhere?

You can apply anywhere, but you need to log your job search activities in the ESD system when you file your weekly claims.

I'll give the calculator another try with my gross wages. Thanks for the tip!

Yes, the maximum weekly benefit amount is adjusted periodically based on average wages in the state. It was $844 in 2022 and increased to $999 for 2024.

Thanks! Good to know it actually goes up sometimes instead of staying the same forever.

That's actually not too bad - at least they don't cut off benefits completely if you work a little.

200 times?! That's insane. Definitely keeping Claimyr in mind as a backup plan.

I had a similar experience. The regular phone system is basically useless during busy periods.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful responses! I feel much more confident about filing my claim now.

Thanks for clarifying that! So theoretically someone could receive close to $26,000 total if they got the maximum weekly amount for the full 26 weeks?

Exactly, though you'd need pretty high earnings to qualify for the maximum weekly benefit amount.

Well, working part-time can reduce your weekly payment if you earn over the earnings disregard amount, but your base benefit amount stays the same.

True, should have been clearer about that distinction.

yeah but it's still way better than a lot of other states. some places cap out at like $400-500 max

fair point, guess we're lucky compared to other places

That would definitely help cover my basic expenses while I job search. Thanks for all the helpful info everyone!

Good point - you can have federal taxes withheld automatically or pay quarterly estimated taxes to avoid a big bill next year.

Absolutely - that's exactly what happened to me. Always worth double checking your wage record before accepting the initial benefit determination.

And if you need to speak with someone at Washington ESD about wage record issues, services like Claimyr can really help you get through. Saved me hours of frustration trying to reach them directly.

That's encouraging! How long does it typically take to get your first payment after filing?

Usually 2-3 weeks if there are no issues with your claim. Could be longer if they need to verify employment or wages.

oh that's smart! i didn't even know you could see that online

Yeah it's under the wage and tax information section. Really helpful for planning.

Still a decent amount for temporary income replacement while job searching.

Agreed - their system automatically calculates the highest possible benefit amount you qualify for using different base year combinations.

That's reassuring to know they're not trying to shortchange people.