How much is unemployment a month in Washington - what should I expect?

So it's based on quarterly earnings not monthly? That's confusing. How do I know which quarter they'll use?

They look at all four quarters in your base period and use whichever one had your highest total wages. The base period is usually the first four of the last five completed quarters before you file.

Wait so if I was making $4200 a month I might only get $999 a week? That's way less than what I was earning.

Unemployment isn't meant to replace your full salary unfortunately. It's usually around 50% or less of what you were making.

How does the weekly filing work? Do I have to do it online?

Yes, through the Washington ESD website. You'll answer questions about any work you did that week, any job offers you turned down, and confirm you're actively searching for work.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr. It's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents by phone. Saved me so much time and stress. Check out claimyr.com - they even have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

Interesting, I'll look into that. Anything has to be better than spending hours redialing the same busy number.

Ugh I didn't even think about taxes. So the monthly amount I get will be even less after taxes?

yeah you can have them withhold 10% for federal taxes when you file your weekly claim, otherwise you'll owe come tax time

I feel you. The benefits haven't kept up with cost of living at all, especially in Seattle area.

Exactly! And they act like $999 a week is generous when that barely covers basic expenses anymore.

What's the dependency allowance? I have two kids.

You can get additional money for dependents - I think it's around $25 per dependent child but double check that with Washington ESD when you file.

What counts as a job search activity?

Applying for jobs, networking events, career fairs, informational interviews. There's a list on the WorkSourceWA website.

A whole week with no payment? That seems harsh when people are already struggling financially.

Yeah it's supposed to encourage people to find work quickly I guess. Just be prepared for it.

Three hours on hold?? That's insane. I gave up after an hour last time I tried calling them.

That's exactly why I started using Claimyr. No more waiting on hold for hours. They handle the calling and get you connected to an actual Washington ESD agent when one becomes available.

How do they determine how many weeks you get? Is it automatic?

It's based on your earnings in the base period. Higher earnings usually mean more weeks of eligibility, up to the maximum.

Good to know. I was planning to wait until next week but I'll file today instead.

Smart move. Every day you wait is money you can't get back.

The maximum benefit amount gets reviewed annually but it doesn't automatically adjust for inflation. It's based on the state's average weekly wage calculations.

That explains why the benefits feel like they're worth less each year even though the dollar amount stays the same.

How much do they deduct? Is it worth working part-time at all?

They subtract your gross earnings minus $5 from your weekly benefit amount. So if you earn $100, they'd reduce your benefit by $95.

Adjudication delays are the worst! Mine took 8 weeks and there was no way to get updates on the status.

This is another area where Claimyr really helps. They can get you through to agents who can actually check on your claim status and explain what's causing delays.

That's helpful for planning. So I should expect maybe $2000-2500 per month based on my previous salary.

Sounds about right. Just remember it's temporary and meant to help while you find your next job, not replace your full income long-term.

What kind of issues would cause disqualification?

Things like quitting without good cause, getting fired for misconduct, not meeting job search requirements, or providing false information on your claim.

Any tips for stretching the unemployment payments? I'm worried about making ends meet.

Food banks, utility assistance programs, and cutting all non-essential subscriptions helped me. Also look into emergency rent assistance if you need it.

How long did it take for your payment to show up after filing the weekly claim?

They say 2-3 business days for direct deposit. I'm still waiting to see my first payment so I can't confirm the timing yet.

Thanks everyone for all the info. This gives me a much better idea of what to expect when I file my claim.

Good luck with your claim! Just be patient with the process and keep detailed records of everything.