How much is unemployment in 2025 - Washington ESD weekly benefit amounts?

Thanks! Do you know where exactly on their site those tables are? I've been looking but the navigation is confusing.

Should be under 'File a Claim' then 'Benefit Calculator' but honestly their website is pretty hard to navigate sometimes.

It's not quite 60% - that's closer to what some other states do. Washington uses a different calculation method based on your quarterly earnings.

That's really helpful to know! Did you have any trouble getting through to Washington ESD when you filed? I keep hearing horror stories about not being able to reach anyone.

Oh man yes, calling them directly was impossible. I actually used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual agent. They have this demo video that explains it: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Made the whole process way less stressful.

Is that before or after taxes? Do they automatically take taxes out of unemployment benefits?

You can choose to have federal taxes withheld (10%) when you file your weekly claims, but it's optional. No state taxes are withheld since Washington doesn't have state income tax.

Oh no, that's exactly what I'm worried about. What does adjudication mean exactly?

Adjudication means they're reviewing something about your claim - could be job separation issues, eligibility questions, or wage discrepancies. Usually resolves within 2-6 weeks but some take longer.

6 weeks?? this is ridiculous. i need that money to pay rent

That math seems about right. Is there a waiting period before benefits start?

There's a one-week waiting period, so your first payable week is actually the second week you're unemployed. Just make sure to file your weekly claims on time.

how did you get through to them when you had questions? the phone system just hangs up on me

I actually didn't call - used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier. Worth every penny to avoid the phone tree nightmare.

Correct - 3 job search activities per week, and yes you need to keep records. They can audit your job search log at any time.

Good to know. Does attending networking events count as job search activities?

Yes, networking events, job fairs, and even some online training can count. There's a list of approved activities on the Washington ESD website.

I'll try to find that calculator. Their website layout is so confusing though.

I might get a small severance package. How does that typically affect things?

Depends on how it's structured. Lump sum is handled differently than weekly severance payments. You'll want to report it when you file and let them determine the impact.

The rates are adjusted annually based on the state average weekly wage, so they do tend to increase each year.

That's really helpful context. I've been at the same job for 3 years so my quarterly earnings should be pretty consistent.

That'll work in your favor for getting a higher benefit amount. Consistent high earnings typically result in benefits closer to the maximum.

Yes, definitely try Claimyr. I was skeptical at first but it really does work. Got connected to an agent within 20 minutes instead of trying for weeks on my own.

ok gonna check it out. desperate at this point

Good point. I should probably have them withhold taxes to avoid a big bill next year.

The quarterly calculation method is actually designed to be more fair to people with varying income patterns, but I agree it's confusing to understand at first.

Thanks for all the advice everyone. Feeling much more prepared now.

Yes, the maximum went from $929 to $999 this year, so all benefit levels increased proportionally.

What counts as 'suitable employment'? Is it based on my previous salary level?

Generally starts at jobs paying 80% of your previous wage, but the requirements become less restrictive the longer you're unemployed.

That's exactly why services like Claimyr exist. Until Washington ESD fixes their capacity issues, sometimes you need a workaround.

Perfect summary. Really appreciate everyone's help with understanding the process.