How much will Washington ESD unemployment pay me weekly?

So if I made $13,000 in my best quarter that would be $500 per week? That seems high.

No, that's not quite right. The formula is more complex than that.

That's helpful! So with $52k annually I'm looking at maybe $500-600 per week?

Probably closer to $500-550 range, but you won't know for sure until Washington ESD processes your claim.

The exact formula is on the Washington ESD website if you want to calculate it yourself before filing.

Never heard of that before. Does it actually work to get through to Washington ESD?

Yeah it worked for me when I was stuck in adjudication. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.

Interesting, I might need to try that if I have issues with my claim.

Good point. When do I start filing weekly claims?

Usually starts the week after you file your initial claim, but check your account for the exact date.

What counts as a job search activity?

Applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, even some online training courses count.

Make sure to log everything in your job search record. Washington ESD can audit you anytime.

I'll check that out, thanks! Better to know ahead of time.

Yeah that calculator saved me from having unrealistic expectations about my benefits.

Waiting week? So I won't get paid for the first week I'm unemployed?

Exactly. The first week is unpaid, then you start getting benefits if you're eligible.

Unless you're on standby from your employer, then it might be different.

That's really helpful to know! Thanks for sharing your actual amount.

How long did it take for your claim to get approved?

About 2 weeks, but I know some people wait longer if they go into adjudication.

The Washington ESD website has the official formula if you want to do the math yourself.

I tried but got confused with all the quarters and base periods stuff

That's exactly why I ended up using Claimyr to talk to someone at Washington ESD directly. Sometimes you just need a real person to explain it.

Yeah I'm not expecting the max, just trying to get a realistic idea for budgeting.

Smart approach. Better to underestimate than be disappointed.

Oh good point, I forgot about taxes. How much do they typically withhold?

10% federal if you choose to have it withheld. Washington doesn't have state income tax.

Definitely have them withhold taxes unless you want a big bill next April.

Yeah I was planning to file online. Heard the phone wait times are terrible.

Hours and hours sometimes. Online is definitely the way to go for filing.

Online filing is fine, but if you run into issues later that's when Claimyr becomes really useful for actually reaching someone.

That's really close to what I was hoping for. Did you have any issues with your claim?

Nope, pretty straightforward since it was a layoff. Just make sure you have all your employer info ready when you file.

How would I know if they reported wrong?

You can check your wage history on the Washington ESD website after you create an account.

If there are wage discrepancies you'll need to contact both your employer and Washington ESD to get it fixed.

Good to know. So any income at all needs to be reported?

Yep, even small amounts. Better to report everything and let them calculate the reduction.

Since I was laid off due to lack of work, that shouldn't be an issue right?

Should be fine, but sometimes they still ask for more info from your employer.

If you do get stuck in adjudication, that's another situation where Claimyr can help you reach someone to check on the status.

26 weeks should be enough time to find something new hopefully.

Yeah, and you can always extend if you're in a training program or certain other situations.

Is that separate from filing the initial claim?

Yeah it's a separate registration but Washington ESD will tell you when you need to do it.

Usually within your first few weeks of claiming benefits, they'll send you instructions.

Thanks everyone for all the info! I feel much more prepared to file my claim now.

Good luck with your claim! Hope it goes smoothly for you.

You're welcome! The uncertainty is the worst part, but once you get your first payment it gets easier.