How much unemployment do you get in Washington - what's the weekly benefit amount?

Thanks! So if my highest quarter was around $15,000, I'd get roughly $288 per week?

That sounds about right, though Washington ESD has specific tables they use. You can get an estimate on their website before filing your claim.

The minimum weekly benefit amount in Washington is $295 for 2025, you're correct on that.

oh cool thanks for confirming!

Never heard of Claimyr before - how does that work exactly?

Basically they help you get through to Washington ESD when the phone lines are swamped. Way easier than spending hours trying to call yourself.

Interesting, might have to check that out since I can never get through either.

That makes sense. I had some overtime in Q3 2024 so that would probably be my highest quarter.

Wait, I thought they used your most recent year of earnings? This is confusing.

No, it's specifically the base year period I mentioned. The most recent quarter often isn't included because wage reports might not be processed yet.

Good point, I should probably have them withhold taxes then.

Yeah, you can elect to have 10% withheld for federal taxes when you file your weekly claims.

You can get an estimate using the benefit calculator on the Washington ESD website before you actually file.

I tried that calculator but it seemed really confusing to use. Maybe I'll just file and see what happens.

That's frustrating! Did Washington ESD explain why it was lower the second time?

Eventually, but it took forever to get someone on the phone to explain it. The gap meant my highest quarter wasn't as high as I thought.

This is exactly why I used Claimyr when I had questions about my benefit calculation. So much easier than trying to reach them directly.

26 weeks seems like it goes by pretty fast when you're job hunting.

It really does. That's why it's important to know your weekly amount so you can budget accordingly.

How do you check if your wages were reported correctly?

You can see your wage history in your Washington ESD account after you file, or request a wage transcript.

If there's a wage reporting issue, you'll need to contact both Washington ESD and your employer to get it corrected.

I understand the stress. File as soon as possible since there's a waiting week, and the sooner you file, the sooner you'll know your exact benefit amount.

thanks, I guess I'll just have to bite the bullet and file tomorrow

That's good to know. Sounds like even part-time workers might be able to get something.

Right, as long as you meet the other eligibility requirements like work history and being available for work.

Yes, bonuses count as wages for unemployment purposes as long as your employer reported them properly on their quarterly wage report.

Perfect, that should help my benefit amount then!

I should probably try that calculator again before filing. Do you need exact wage amounts or can you estimate?

It's better to be as accurate as possible, but estimates will give you a ballpark figure at least.

Definitely recommend it. Saved me so much frustration compared to calling directly.

cool thanks, gonna check out their website tonight

Right, I heard you have to apply to jobs every week. How many job applications do you need to do?

It's 3 job search activities per week in Washington, but they can be applications, networking, interviews, etc.

I've only worked in Washington so that shouldn't be an issue for me.

Good, that makes it much simpler. Washington ESD will have all your wage records then.

That's a good point. Even if it's not my full salary, it's better than nothing while I job hunt.

Exactly! Plus you've been paying into the system through your paychecks, so you've earned these benefits.