How much unemployment will I get if I make $1,000 a week in Washington?

Thanks! So that would put me around $385 per week then? That's not too bad actually.

don't forget there's a maximum weekly benefit amount in washington, think it's around $950 now but changes each year

Thanks! That seems like a pretty good replacement rate compared to what I've heard about other states.

Wait, is that right? I thought the max was lower than that. Let me check the current rates.

I've been at this job for about 8 months now. Does that mean I'd get the full amount?

You need to look at your base period quarters. If you worked the full time at $1000/week during your highest quarter, then yes you should get close to max benefits.

wait thats almost as much as working! no wonder people stay on unemployment

That's exactly the point - unemployment is supposed to replace a significant portion of your income so you can focus on job searching instead of taking any random job just to survive.

Good to know it would actually cover most of my expenses if something happened to my job.

Thanks! So it's not a simple percentage of my current wage? The base period thing is what's confusing me.

Right, it's based on your earnings from 5-17 months ago, not your current wage. They look at your highest earning quarter and divide by 26.

It's not 60% of current wages - that's a common misconception. Washington ESD uses your base period earnings from over a year ago to calculate benefits.

oh really? that seems weird why would they use old earnings

Did you find the calculator helpful once you figured out your base period?

Yeah, but I had to call Washington ESD to verify my quarters because their online system showed different numbers than my records.

Wait, so I could get almost my full pay? That seems too good to be true.

Well not exactly. The max is $999 but your actual amount depends on your specific earnings history. You need to look at your base period quarters, not just your current weekly pay.

So if my highest quarter was around $13,000, that would be $500 per week divided by 2 = $250 weekly? That seems really low compared to what I'm making now.

Actually, let me clarify - they don't just divide by 2. The formula is more complex. Your weekly benefit rate is calculated as your highest quarter wages divided by 26, then multiplied by about 0.5 to 0.54 depending on your total base period wages. You'd likely get somewhere between $400-500 weekly.

Good to know about the cap. I've been at this job for 2 years so my base period should be solid.

Man, I wish I made $1,000 a week. My benefits are only $350 😞

So it's not just based on my current $1,000/week? That's confusing. How do I know what my highest quarter was?

Right, it's based on historical earnings. You can check your quarterly wage reports on the Washington ESD website or look at your pay stubs to calculate it yourself.

How much does that cost? I've been trying to reach ESD for days about my adjudication.

It's worth it compared to the time you save. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Much better than the endless busy signals.

Is that legit? Sounds too good to be true honestly

I was skeptical too but it actually worked. Got through to someone in about 10 minutes instead of calling all day.

That's still pretty good though. Did you have any issues with the job search requirements?

Yeah the job search log is a pain but manageable. You need 3 job contacts per week.

Thanks! Do you know where exactly the calculator is on their site? I've been looking but can't find it.

It's under 'File a Claim' then 'Benefit Calculator' or you can search for 'unemployment benefit calculator Washington' and it should come up.

That's way less than I expected! So even though I make $1,000 now, I'd only get around $500 in unemployment?

Yeah unemployment isn't meant to replace your full income, just provide temporary assistance while you look for work.

Thanks, I'll keep that in mind if I need to actually file and have questions about my benefit amount.

never heard of that service before but anything is better than sitting on hold for hours

Wait, so I could get close to the maximum? That would be way better than I expected!

Yeah, higher earners usually max out pretty easily. The system is designed to replace a percentage of lower wages more generously.

Oh no, really? How did you finally get through?

honestly ended up using this service called claimyr.com - saw someone mention it here before. you pay them to get you connected to an actual washington esd agent. worked for me after trying for 3 weeks on my own. they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ if you want to see how it works.

Can vouch for this - Claimyr got me through to Washington ESD in like 10 minutes when I couldn't reach them for weeks. Totally worth it when you're stressed about getting your claim filed.

Yeah I've heard about that. Do they really check up on the job search stuff?

They definitely do. I got selected for a job search audit last year and had to provide documentation for every application I submitted.

How many jobs do you have to apply for each week?

I believe it's 3 job search activities per week, but you should verify that with Washington ESD since requirements can change.

That's helpful to know, thanks! Did you have any issues with the claim process?

nah it was pretty straightforward once i figured out the weekly claims. just make sure you file on time every week

I tried using it but wasn't sure if I was entering the right information. Do you use gross or net wages?

Always use gross wages - your total earnings before taxes and deductions.

And make sure you're looking at the right base period quarters, not just recent paystubs

That's... literally how unemployment insurance is supposed to work. You pay into it based on your wages, so higher earners get higher benefits when they need them.

It's insurance, not welfare. People who earn more pay more into the system through their employers, so they get more out when they need it.

still seems excessive when people are struggling to get basic claims processed

I had the same problem until I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com). They actually get you connected to a real Washington ESD agent without all the waiting and busy signals. There's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works. Saved me so much time and frustration.

Really? That sounds almost too good to be true. How does it work exactly?

It's legit. They basically handle the calling process for you and patch you through when they get an agent on the line. Super simple to use.

Did you have any trouble getting through to them when you filed? I've heard the phone system is impossible.

Oh man, calling Washington ESD directly was a nightmare. I spent hours on hold and kept getting disconnected. I actually ended up using this service called Claimyr that helped me get through to an agent. You can check it out at claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that explains how it works.

That makes more sense than what I was calculating myself. Is there a minimum time you have to work before you qualify?

Yes, you need wages in at least two quarters of your base period and total wages of at least 680 hours at minimum wage. With 8 months at $1k/week, you should easily qualify.

6 weeks?? How are people supposed to pay bills for that long?

exactly! thats why i tell everyone to file immediately and have savings. also start job searching right away because you have to do 3 job contacts per week minimum.

What's the replacement rate in Washington? And how do I know which quarter was my highest?

Washington's replacement rate is around 50% but there are minimum and maximum limits. Your wage statement in your Washington ESD account will show your quarterly earnings.

Wait, unemployment is taxable? I had no idea!

Yes, it's federally taxable and Washington has no state income tax. You can choose to have 10% withheld or pay at tax time.

It's because they need time to verify earnings with employers. Using current wages would be too easy to manipulate.

i guess that makes sense but its still annoying when you need help NOW

Oh no, is it really that hard to reach them? I was hoping the online system would handle most of it.

Online works for basic stuff but if there are any issues with your claim you'll need to talk to someone. Their phone lines are constantly busy.

Perfect, thanks for confirming that! Hopefully I won't need to use it but good to know.

Lucky you! I'm stuck at $450/week because my previous job paid terribly.

Good point. Is there any way around the job search requirement if you're expecting to be called back?

Only if you're on standby status, but your employer has to specifically request that. Otherwise you're stuck doing the job searches every week.

Good point! What specific documents do they need?

Social security card, ID, pay stubs from last 18 months, and any severance/vacation payout info. Make sure you know your employer's exact legal name and address too.

Good point, I hadn't thought about the tax implications. Is it better to have them withhold taxes or pay quarterly?

Depends on your situation, but having taxes withheld can save you from a big tax bill later. You can adjust it in your unemployment account settings.

Oh that's a good point. I got promoted about 8 months ago, so some of my base period would be at my old salary.

Yeah this is why timing matters when you file. Sometimes waiting a few weeks can put you in a better base period.

Yes, your benefit amount is based on your earnings history. Higher earners generally get higher benefits, up to the state maximum.

that sucks for people who don't make as much to begin with

That does seem high. Did you have varying wages across quarters? Sometimes people qualify under different calculation methods.

yeah my wages went up during the year, maybe that affected it?

So if I file in March 2025, what would my base period be?

It would be Q3 2023 through Q2 2024. So July 2023 through June 2024.

That might affect my calculation then since I started this job in May 2024.

How do you request an alternate base period?

You'd need to contact Washington ESD directly. This is another situation where Claimyr could help you get through to an agent who can explain your options.

Interesting, never heard of that. Is it legit or just another scam?

It's legit, they just help you get through the phone queue. I was skeptical too but it actually worked when I needed to resolve an adjudication issue.

I used them too when I couldn't reach anyone about my job search requirements. Worth it to avoid the endless busy signals.

What exactly do I need to do for job search requirements?

You need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log of your activities. This includes applying for jobs, networking, attending job fairs, etc.

And you have to register with WorkSource Washington within 7 days of filing your claim.

My company is talking about potential layoffs, so hopefully it would be straightforward if it happens.

Adjudication is the worst. I've been waiting 5 weeks for them to make a decision on my claim.

That's exactly when Claimyr is most helpful. They can get you connected to someone who can actually explain what's happening with your adjudication instead of just waiting.

I've been at this job for about 8 months, before that I was making around $800/week. Would that affect my benefits?

Possibly yes. Your base period would include quarters from your previous job, so your benefit amount might be calculated on the $800/week earnings instead.

3 weeks for adjudication? That seems like a long time. Did they tell you what the holdup was?

nope just said 'pending adjudication' on my account. finally cleared though and got all the back pay

What specific part is confusing you? The weekly claim questions are pretty standard once you get used to them.

Like what counts as 'work' when they ask if you worked that week? If I did a small freelance job for $50, do I report that?

Yes, you need to report ALL earnings, even small amounts. Washington ESD will deduct it from your benefit payment accordingly.

Ugh, so many things to consider. This is stressful and I'm not even laid off yet!

That's reassuring to know. Hopefully I never need to use it, but good to understand how it works.

Exactly - it's like any other insurance. You hope you never need it but it's there if you do.

Oh I didn't know about the waiting week. Is that still a thing in Washington?

Washington eliminated the waiting week during COVID and I believe it's still eliminated, but you should verify current policy with Washington ESD.

Yeah I've been at this job for over a year so I should be good on that front.

You can estimate your benefit amount using the online calculator on their website. It's not perfect but gives you a ballpark figure.

I tried that calculator and it gave me some error message about my SSN. Nothing works with Washington ESD.

What exactly are the job search requirements? I keep hearing different things.

You need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a detailed log. Washington ESD can audit your job search activities at any time.

And don't forget you have to register with WorkSource Washington too. That's required before you can start receiving benefits.

Good point about taxes. I'd probably have them withhold the 10% to avoid a big bill later.

Yeah, learned that the hard way. Owed like $3,000 at tax time because I didn't have anything withheld.

Can you have taxes withheld automatically or do you have to pay quarterly?

You can request 10% federal withholding when you file your weekly claims. Much easier than owing a big chunk at tax time.

Good point about the documentation. I'll ask HR about that.

That's exactly why I used Claimyr - saved me so much frustration trying to reach Washington ESD directly. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person to sort things out.

What counts as a job search activity?

Applying for jobs, networking events, career fairs, interviews, even some training activities. They want to see you're actively looking, not just collecting benefits.

Washington ESD looks at all your covered employment when calculating benefits. Both jobs should be included in your base period earnings as long as they were paying into the unemployment system.

Good to know, thanks! I was worried they'd only count one job.

That's a clearer explanation than what's on the Washington ESD website. Thank you!

I thought it was highest quarter divided by 13 weeks? Now I'm confused about how they calculate it.

You're right, I mixed up the formula. It's highest quarter divided by 13, not two quarters divided by 26. My mistake!

That actually works in your favor! Washington ESD uses your highest earning quarter to calculate benefits, so if you had a really good quarter with overtime and bonuses, that would increase your weekly benefit amount.

Oh that's actually pretty fair then. I had one quarter last year where I worked tons of overtime.

Good to know it gets adjusted annually. At least it keeps up with inflation somewhat.

Right, though the calculation is based on historical data so it always lags behind current wage growth a bit.

Thanks for the realistic expectation. At least I know what to budget for now.

That's helpful to know which quarters they actually use. I started this job in June so hopefully I have enough qualifying wages.

How strict are they about the weekly filing deadlines?

Pretty strict. You have to file by the end of the week for that week's benefits. Miss it and you lose that week's payment.

What kind of questions did you have that required calling them?

Mostly about my eligibility period and when my benefits would start. The automated system doesn't give you much detail.

That's where services like Claimyr come in handy. I used them when I couldn't get through the regular phone lines.

I've been at this pay level for about 2 years, so my base period should reflect the higher wages.

That's good then. I made the mistake of filing right after getting a big raise and my benefits were based on my old lower salary.

True, no state tax is definitely a plus. Federal taxes are unavoidable though.

Still better than states that tax unemployment benefits twice!

Is WorkSource registration required right away or can you wait a few weeks?

You need to register within a certain timeframe after filing. I think it's like 2-3 weeks but don't quote me on that.

It's actually required before you can receive your first payment. Don't wait on it.

Definitely hoping I don't need it, but good to know what to expect just in case.

Better to know and not need it than need it and be clueless about how it works.

Perfect, thanks for the updated number! That's actually really good.

Wow, they increased it quite a bit from last year. Good to know for anyone filing claims this year.

6 weeks?! How are people supposed to pay bills during that time?

Exactly. That's why I always recommend having some savings before you need to file. The system isn't designed for people who need immediate help.

Good point, I always forget about the tax implications. Probably smart to have them withhold something.

Yeah, 10% federal withholding is the standard option if you want to avoid a big tax bill later.

Yes, overtime counts as regular wages for benefit calculation purposes. All wages reported to Washington ESD by your employer count toward your base period.

Sweet, that should help my benefit amount then. I've been working 60+ hour weeks for the past year.

Adjudication can take several weeks, especially if there are questions about your separation from work or eligibility. Have you tried calling to check on the status?

I've tried calling but can never get through. The wait times are insane.

This is exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier - they really help with getting through to Washington ESD agents when you can't reach them directly.

I don't think it's intentional, just bureaucratic. But yeah it's definitely not user-friendly.

maybe but it sure feels intentional when you're trying to navigate it while stressed about money

How much does something like that cost? I'm trying to budget carefully right now.

It was reasonable for what I got - actually talking to a human instead of listening to busy signals all day. Check their site for current info.

That's actually really helpful flexibility. So you could do some consulting work without losing all your benefits?

Exactly, as long as you report all your earnings on your weekly claim and stay under the threshold.

just make sure you report EVERYTHING - Washington ESD will find out if you dont and you could face penalties

Yikes, what kind of documentation do they want?

Company names, contact info, dates, method of contact. Keep everything! They can ask for it anytime during your claim.

The job search log is available on their website. Better to use their official form to avoid any issues.

Haha right? Just trying to be prepared in case things go south with my company.

That's confusing. So if I file in January, they wouldn't count January work?

Right, they'd look at completed quarters. But you might be able to use alternate base period if it gives you higher benefits.

I tried it but got confused about which quarters to use. Maybe I'll give it another shot.

Use your four most recent completed quarters before you file. The calculator will walk you through it step by step.

Good to know it's not all horror stories. How long did it take to get your first payment?

about 2 weeks after filing, but that was before covid. might be faster now that they've improved the system

Wait, what's a waiting week? You mean no payment for the first week you're unemployed?

Exactly. You file for it but don't get paid. It's like a one-week deductible basically.

How much does it cost though? Is it worth it if you just have basic questions?

For basic stuff probably not needed, but if your claim gets complicated it's a lifesaver. Much cheaper than losing weeks of benefits.

Interesting, I hadn't heard of standby status. What's the difference from regular unemployment?

You don't have to do job search activities because you're expected to return to your job when business picks up. But you still get benefits for the hours you lost.

That's good advice. I always thought you could backdate them if needed.

Nope, only in very specific circumstances. Better to file right away and stop claiming if you find work quickly.

How does that work exactly? Do they reduce your benefits dollar for dollar with what you earn?

There's an earnings deduction formula. You can work part-time and still get partial benefits as long as you earn less than your weekly benefit amount plus $5.

Definitely won't risk that! Better to get less benefits honestly than deal with overpayment issues.

Exactly. I've seen people get hit with huge overpayment bills because they tried to hide income or didn't report things properly.

Perfect summary, thank you! This thread has been incredibly helpful. Hopefully I won't need to use this info but good to know what to expect.

Good advice. How long does it typically take to get your first payment after filing?

If everything goes smoothly, about 2-3 weeks. Longer if you get stuck in adjudication for any reason.

That's really helpful to know. Did you have any issues with the application process?

Pretty smooth actually. The hardest part was understanding which quarters they were using for the calculation.

The automated system uses preliminary data. Your actual benefit amount gets calculated when a human reviews your full work history.

yeah learned that the hard way. wish they made that clearer upfront

They mentioned possible severance but haven't given details yet. Does that delay benefits?

It can. Washington ESD counts severance as wages for the weeks it covers, which might reduce or delay your unemployment payments.

Good luck getting through though. I tried calling for a week straight before giving up.

That's where services like Claimyr come in handy. Sometimes you just need to talk to an actual person to get answers.

Is there a minimum amount you need to have earned to qualify for unemployment at all?

Yes, Washington has minimum earnings requirements in your base period. With $1000/week wages you should easily meet them though.

Close - I'm in digital marketing. Yeah, our whole industry seems to be having a rough time right now.

Same boat here. At least unemployment benefits in Washington are decent compared to other states. Silver lining I guess.

Thanks everyone for all the help! This gives me a much better idea of what to expect.

Good luck! Hope you don't need the benefits but at least you'll be prepared if you do.

How much does that cost though? I'm already going to be tight on money if I file for unemployment.

It's not expensive and honestly saved me way more in time and stress than what it cost. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person to get answers.

Same experience here. The system just hangs up on you after an hour on hold.

I've had better luck calling right when they open at 8 AM, but even then it's hit or miss.

That range makes sense. I was hoping for closer to the max but $750-900 would still help a lot.

Just remember you'll pay taxes on unemployment benefits too, so factor that in when budgeting.

Wait, there's a waiting week? So even if I file immediately I won't get paid for the first week?

Correct. It's called a waiting week and it's unpaid. You still need to file your weekly claim though.

Actually I think they might have eliminated the waiting week during COVID and I'm not sure if it came back. Worth double checking on that.

Good advice. I'll set that up this weekend just in case.

Smart move. Also gather your employment documents now - pay stubs, W2s, etc. You'll need them when you file.

Finally, someone with insider knowledge! So if I made $13,000 in each of my two highest quarters, that would be $26,000 ÷ 26 = $1,000 × 0.60 = $600/week?

Exactly right. Though there are some other factors that can affect it, but that's the basic formula.

This is super helpful. I wish Washington ESD explained it this clearly on their website.

I'm still skeptical about services like this but hearing multiple people mention it makes me think it might be legit.

I was skeptical too but desperate times called for desperate measures. Turned out to be totally worth it.

I've been at my current job for 3 years full-time, so I should be good on the work history requirement.

Yeah you'll definitely qualify for the full 26 weeks if needed. Just remember to keep filing your weekly claims on time.

This is exactly why services like Claimyr exist. Sometimes you just need to talk to a human being to get answers.

True. The website only gets you so far when you have specific questions about your situation.

Of course. I'm hoping I won't even need to file, but want to be prepared just in case.