How much is unemployment benefit in Washington state weekly?

Washington unemployment benefits are calculated based on your highest earning quarter in your base period. Generally it's around 50% of your average weekly wage, but there's a maximum amount they'll pay. For 2025, I believe the max weekly benefit is around $1,015. Since you were making $22/hour full time, you'd probably get somewhere in the $400-500 range per week, but the exact amount depends on your full earnings history.

The calculation is based on your base period which is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters before you filed. You can see your exact benefit amount once Washington ESD processes your initial claim. It typically takes 1-2 weeks to get your monetary determination letter that shows your weekly benefit amount and how many weeks you're eligible for.

I was in a similar situation last year and had trouble getting through to Washington ESD to check on my claim status. If you run into issues reaching them by phone, I found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to actual agents. They have a website at claimyr.com and there's a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Really saved me a lot of frustration trying to call during peak hours.

just a heads up the max benefit changes every year. i think its higher now than it was last year but dont quote me on that. also you have to do job searches every week to keep getting benefits - they're pretty strict about that requirement.

The amount varies a lot based on your work history. I was making $18/hour and got about $350/week. My friend who made more got around $480/week. The key thing is to file your weekly claims on time every week or you'll lose those benefits permanently. Washington ESD doesn't let you backdate missed weeks.

Don't forget about the waiting week! Washington has a one week waiting period before you start receiving benefits. So even if you file right away, your first payable week will be your second week of unemployment. Just something to factor into your budget planning.

I hate how complicated they make this system. Been trying to figure out my benefit amount for weeks and can't get through to anyone at Washington ESD. The phone lines are always busy and when you do get through they put you on hold forever then hang up. It's like they don't want people to actually get help.

One thing to keep in mind is that if you had any other income in your base period (like a second job or gig work), that will affect your benefit calculation too. Washington ESD looks at all your covered wages, not just your main job. So if you had any W-2 income from multiple sources, include all of it when you file your claim.

The system is designed to replace about half your income, but there are limits. If you were making really good money, you might get less than 50% because of the maximum benefit cap. If you were making lower wages, you might get closer to 50% or even a bit more in some cases.

ugh the whole process is such a pain. took me forever to get my monetary determination and then when i did the amount was lower than i expected. turns out i had a quarter with lower wages that brought down my average. make sure you understand how they calculate the base period or you might be disappointed

Just want to add that the benefit amount isn't permanent - it's based on your claim year. So if you exhaust your benefits and need to file a new claim later, the amount could be different based on more recent wages. But for your current claim, the weekly amount stays the same throughout your benefit year.

Make sure you set up direct deposit when you file your claim. Paper checks take forever to arrive and can get lost in the mail. With direct deposit, you get your benefits much faster once they're approved.

I've been on unemployment twice and the amount calculation always seems confusing until you actually see your determination letter. The good news is Washington's benefits are pretty decent compared to other states. Just make sure you file all your weekly claims on time and keep looking for work.

Word of advice - when you do your job searches, keep detailed records. Write down the company name, position, date you applied, and how you applied. Washington ESD can ask for this information at any time and if you can't provide it, they might disqualify you.

The weekly benefit amount also depends on whether you qualify for any dependents allowance. If you have kids or a spouse who doesn't work, you might get additional money on top of your base benefit amount.

Don't stress too much about the exact amount until you get your determination letter. The important thing is to file soon and start the process. The sooner you file, the sooner you can start receiving benefits and looking for your next job.

Just remember that unemployment is temporary assistance, not a career. Use the time wisely to find a better job, maybe even consider getting some training or certifications while you're collecting benefits. Washington has some good workforce development programs.

One last tip - if you have any issues with your claim or need to speak with someone about your benefit amount, don't give up on calling Washington ESD. I know their phone system is frustrating, but sometimes you really need to talk to a human to get things resolved.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful information! I feel much more prepared to file my claim now. I'll definitely file tomorrow and hopefully get my determination letter soon so I know exactly what to expect.