Washington ESD unemployment benefit amounts 2024 - how much should I expect?

Thanks! So if I made around $13,000 in my highest quarter, that would be about $500 per week?

Yes, that sounds about right. You can also use the benefit calculator on the Washington ESD website to get a more precise estimate.

Washington has been gradually increasing the maximum benefit amounts over the past few years. The $999 maximum reflects cost of living adjustments and wage growth in the state.

damn wish i knew that when i was on unemployment last year lol

How does that work exactly? Do they charge you to make the call?

They handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when an agent is available. Much better than sitting on hold for hours or getting disconnected.

Interesting, I might need something like that if my claim runs into problems. The phone system is brutal.

The maximum is the same regardless of your claim type - regular UI, standby, or shared work. The calculation method is what varies slightly depending on your situation.

Good to know, thanks! My union rep wasn't sure about the current maximums.

Yes, all wages reported to Washington ESD count toward your base period earnings, including overtime, bonuses, and commissions.

Perfect, that should help boost my weekly amount then!

Wow that's a solid amount! How long did it take from filing to getting your first payment?

About 3 weeks total. Had to do the initial waiting week, then got paid for the following two weeks all at once.

lucky you didnt get stuck in adjudication hell like half the people on here

Good point. Do they audit the job search logs regularly or just randomly?

It varies, but they definitely do check. Better to be thorough with your documentation from the start.

Oh right, I forgot about that. Is it better to have them withhold or pay later?

Depends on your situation, but having 10% withheld usually covers federal taxes at least.

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. Game changer for getting through to actual people at ESD.

Yeah I saw that, might have to try it if I run into more problems. Thanks for the tip.

With minimum wage at $16.28/hour in Washington, working full-time would be about $33,800 annually. That would likely qualify for around $325-350 per week in benefits.

That's actually not bad for minimum wage work. Thanks!

Yeah the waiting week is rough when you're already stressed about money. At least it's only one week now instead of the longer periods some states have.

True, could be worse. Just wish the whole process was faster.

If you think you made an error, it's better to contact Washington ESD proactively to correct it. They're usually more lenient if you self-report mistakes versus them discovering it later.

Good advice, I'll try calling them... if I can ever get through.

Again, this is where something like Claimyr really helps. Getting through to ESD for situations like this is exactly what it's designed for.

The maximum benefit amounts are typically adjusted annually based on average wages in the state. So yes, there's usually some increase each year, though it might be modest.

Makes sense. At least it keeps up with inflation somewhat.

So maximum would be around $26,000 for the year? That's actually pretty decent.

Right, though hopefully you find work before exhausting all 26 weeks!

Absolutely correct. You have appeal rights for most Washington ESD decisions, and it's often worth pursuing if you believe there's been an error.

yeah learned that the hard way on my first claim years ago

Good luck with your claim! The process has definitely improved over the years, even if there are still some rough spots.

Agreed, this was exactly what I needed to know. Really appreciate everyone taking the time to explain everything.

Great point! I'll make sure to have my banking info ready when I file.

Yes! And double-check your bank account info is correct. A typo there can really delay your payments.

Exactly. Small details like that can make a big difference in how smoothly everything goes.