How much money can I make on Washington ESD unemployment benefits?

Washington ESD calculates your weekly benefit amount based on your earnings during your base period, which is typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters. The maximum weekly benefit amount for 2025 is $999 per week. Your benefit amount will be roughly 3.85% of your total base period wages divided by 52, but there are caps.

i think its like 60% of what you made but dont quote me on that. my friend got like $400 something a week but she wasnt making that much to begin with

The exact calculation can be confusing, but here's what I learned when I filed: Washington ESD looks at your highest earning quarter during your base period and uses that to determine your weekly benefit amount. If you were making $4,200 monthly, you're likely looking at the maximum benefit amount of $999/week. You'll also need to register with WorkSource WA and do job search activities.

Just a heads up - actually getting through to Washington ESD to get your claim processed can be a nightmare. I spent weeks trying to call them when my claim got stuck in adjudication. Eventually found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works. Saved me so much time and frustration.

The Washington ESD website has a benefit calculator but honestly it's not very user-friendly. From what I remember, they take your two highest earning quarters from your base period, add them together, divide by 2, then multiply by 0.0385 to get your weekly amount. But again, there's that $999 maximum cap.

Don't forget you'll have to pay taxes on unemployment benefits! It's not like you get the full $999 in your pocket. I learned that the hard way at tax time.

Another thing to consider - if you do any part-time work while on unemployment, they'll reduce your benefits dollar for dollar after the first $5. So if you make $100 in a week, they'll subtract $95 from your unemployment payment.

WASHINGTON ESD IS SO SLOW WITH PAYMENTS! I've been waiting 3 weeks for my first payment and they keep saying my claim is under review. The whole system is a joke honestly.

The benefit amount also depends on when you file. They look at a specific base period, so timing can matter. If you file too early after losing your job, you might not have enough earnings in your base period to qualify for the maximum benefit.

Just want to mention that the $999 maximum is for regular unemployment insurance. If you're in certain industries or situations, there might be other programs with different benefit amounts. But for most people, regular UI is what you'll get.

One more thing - make sure you apply as soon as possible after losing your job. Benefits can't be backdated, so you lose money for every week you wait to file your initial claim.

has anyone had luck with calling washington esd lately? every time i try the line is busy or i get disconnected after waiting forever

For anyone wondering about the exact numbers - I was making about $5,000/month and my weekly benefit amount came out to exactly $999. So if you're making good money, you'll probably hit the maximum too.

Don't forget about the waiting week! Your first week of benefits is unpaid - it's like a deductible. So even if you file right away, you won't get paid for that first week.

The whole process is pretty straightforward once you get started. Just be prepared for some waiting and make sure you do your weekly claims every week. Missing even one week can cause problems with your benefits.