If I get laid off how much can I collect Washington ESD unemployment benefits?

Thanks! So if my highest quarter was around $15,000, that would be about $577 per week? That's actually better than I expected.

Don't forget you'll have to pay taxes on unemployment benefits too, so plan accordingly.

This is so confusing! Why can't they just make it simple like other states?

I know it seems complicated but once you file your claim, Washington ESD will calculate it automatically based on your wage records.

Oh no, that sounds awful. Were you eventually able to get through?

Eventually yes, but it took forever. I actually found this service called Claimyr that helped me get connected to an actual Washington ESD agent. Check out claimyr.com - they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

That's the maximum amount, but you'd need to have been earning a very high salary to qualify for that much. Most people get significantly less.

Yeah the maximum is based on having really high quarterly earnings. Most regular folks like us get maybe $300-500 per week.

What kind of questions did they have? I thought layoffs were pretty straightforward for unemployment.

They wanted documentation from my employer about the layoff being due to lack of work rather than performance issues. It was a mess.

This is exactly why having a way to actually talk to Washington ESD is so important. The online system doesn't always give you clear answers about what they need.

Take a deep breath. If you were laid off through no fault of your own and you've been working steadily, you should qualify. The key is having accurate information and being able to communicate with Washington ESD when needed.

The phone thing is real though. I tried calling Washington ESD for three weeks straight and never got through during normal business hours.

What kind of job search activities? Do I have to apply to a certain number of jobs each week?

Yes, you need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log. You can do this through WorkSourceWA or on your own, but you have to document everything.

And if you don't do the job search requirements, they'll stop your benefits until you comply.

I feel your frustration. The phone system is definitely overwhelmed.

This is exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. When the regular phone system fails, sometimes you need alternatives to actually reach someone who can help.

Good point. I think they might offer 2 weeks severance if there are layoffs. Would I have to wait until that runs out to file for unemployment?

Generally yes, but you should file your claim right away anyway. Washington ESD will determine the waiting period based on your severance amount and when it's paid out.

26 weeks goes by faster than you think, especially if you're being picky about job opportunities.

Hopefully I won't need that long, but it's good to know there's a limit.

What counts as 'for cause'? I've heard some employers try to claim performance issues even when it's really about budget cuts.

Exactly. That's why documentation is so important. Save any emails or notices about layoffs, restructuring, or budget cuts.

That's helpful to know. Hopefully I won't need to worry about getting laid off twice in one year!

Unfortunately it happens more than you'd think, especially in certain industries.

Good to know. I'll file right away if it happens. Better to be prepared than scrambling later.

Yes, and make sure you have all your employment information ready - dates, wages, employer details. It speeds up the application process.

You can work part-time and still collect partial unemployment benefits, but you have to report all earnings on your weekly claims. Washington ESD will reduce your benefits based on how much you earn.

The general rule is they reduce your benefit dollar-for-dollar once you earn more than about $200 in a week, but it's worth checking the exact thresholds.

What was the hardest part of the process for you?

Honestly, just getting someone on the phone when I needed clarification about job search requirements. The automated system and website only go so far when you have specific questions about your situation.