How much unemployment do you get if you get laid off in Washington?

That's helpful, thanks! So they look at my best quarter, not my total annual salary?

Exactly. They take your highest earning quarter, divide by 13 weeks, then calculate roughly 50% of that amount.

I tried the calculator but it's asking for quarterly wages and I only know my annual salary. How do I figure out my quarterly amounts?

Check your pay stubs or ask HR for your quarterly wage statements. You'll need those exact figures for the most accurate calculation.

Your W-2 might also break it down by quarter if you have last year's copy.

Interesting, I've never heard of that. Is it expensive?

It's worth it when you consider how much time you save not sitting on hold for hours. Plus they actually get you connected to a real person who can answer your questions.

I'm always skeptical of third-party services for government stuff. Has anyone else used this?

Good to know on the timing. Should I wait until my actual last day or can I file before?

File on your first day of unemployment, not before. Washington ESD is pretty strict about that timing.

What counts as a job search contact?

Applying for jobs, contacting employers directly, attending job fairs, networking events. There's a full list on the Washington ESD website.

Don't forget about WorkSourceWA registration - that's required within 2 weeks of filing your claim.

Oh wow, I didn't think about the tax implications. Thanks for mentioning that.

Yeah, it's 10% federal withholding if you choose that option. Better than getting hit with a big tax bill later.

What's adjudication? Should I be worried about that?

It's when Washington ESD has to investigate something about your claim. Usually happens if there's a question about why you left your job or if your employer disputes it.

Since you're being laid off, you shouldn't have to worry about adjudication. That's typically for quits or terminations for cause.

Good point. I'll make sure to get copies of everything from HR.

I think I'm getting 2 weeks severance. Will that delay my benefits by 2 weeks?

Possibly, but it depends on how the severance is structured. You'll need to report it when you file your claim and Washington ESD will determine the impact.

I might actually try this. The phone system is absolutely terrible.

Yeah, it's a game changer. Especially when you need to talk to someone about something specific like benefit calculations or claim issues.

So even if I file immediately, I won't get paid for the first week?

Correct. The first week is unpaid, but you still need to file your weekly claim for it.

With 2 years of work history, should I be able to get the full 26 weeks?

Probably, but it depends on your total earnings. The formula is complex but 2 years of steady work should qualify you for a decent duration.

Good tip, thanks. How long does it usually take to get your first payment?

If everything goes smoothly, about 2-3 weeks from when you file. That includes the waiting week and processing time.

Weekly claims are filed online through the Washington ESD website, right?

Yes, through SecureAccess Washington (SAW). You can file online or by phone, but online is usually faster and easier.

Yeah, I'm definitely going to look into that if I run into any issues. Thanks everyone for all the helpful info!

Absolutely. I feel much more prepared now though. This thread has been incredibly helpful.

Good luck with everything. The unemployment system can be overwhelming but you'll get through it.

Definitely planning on it. Thanks again everyone for sharing your experiences and advice.