Washington ESD unemployment benefit amounts for 2025 - how much should I expect?

That helps! How do I figure out which quarter was my highest? Do I need to look at my pay stubs or will Washington ESD tell me?

When you file your claim, Washington ESD will show you your base period quarters and which one was highest. You can also check your wage history on your SecureAccess Washington account.

The maximum did increase for 2025. It's tied to the state average weekly wage, so it goes up each year. You can verify the current amounts on the Washington ESD website.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr. It's a service that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. I used it last month and got connected within 30 minutes instead of spending hours trying to call. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Interesting, I've never heard of that. Does it actually work or is it just another scam?

It's legit. They basically call for you and connect you when they get through. Saved me so much frustration with the busy signals.

Good point. How would I know if an employer didn't report my wages correctly?

Check your quarterly wage statements on your SecureAccess Washington account. If any employer is missing or shows the wrong amount, you'll need to contact Washington ESD to get it corrected.

I want to know roughly what to expect before I file so I can plan my budget. It's helpful to understand how it works.

I learned this the hard way last year. Owed way more than I expected because I didn't have taxes taken out of my unemployment.

Yeah, it's 10% federal withholding if you elect it. Better to have it taken out than deal with a big tax bill later.

No, they use all your covered wages regardless of whether it was full-time or part-time work. As long as the employers paid into the unemployment system, those wages count.

If you filed in January 2025, your base period would typically be October 2022 through September 2023. It's the first four of the last five completed quarters before you file.

That seems like really old wages. What if I made more money in 2024?

You might qualify for the alternate base period which uses more recent wages. Washington ESD will automatically check this if your regular base period doesn't qualify you for benefits.

That sounds about right! Make sure to file your weekly claims on time and keep looking for work to maintain your benefits.

Because it has to be fair to everyone regardless of their work history. The formula ensures people who earned more get higher benefits up to the maximum.

What counts as a job search activity? Just applying for jobs?

Applying for jobs, networking, attending job fairs, interviews, career counseling - there's a list on the Washington ESD website of approved activities.

Yes, I had to pay back $800 last year. You can set up a payment plan if you can't pay it all at once. Call Washington ESD to work out the details.

I've been trying to call for days with no luck. Maybe I should try that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier.

Good to know it keeps going up. At least unemployment benefits are keeping pace with wage growth somewhat.

Actually, the duration can vary based on the unemployment rate. During high unemployment periods, extended benefits might be available.

True, but right now with the economy doing better, it's back to the standard 26 weeks for most people.

How much does it cost? I'm already tight on money being unemployed.

It's way cheaper than missing out on benefits because you can't get through to fix an issue. Check their website for current pricing.

Perfect, that's exactly the simple explanation I was looking for. Thanks!

I didn't know about the standby exception. My employer said I might be called back in a few months so this is helpful information.

I kept getting different amounts until I realized I was using my take-home pay instead of gross. Made a big difference in the calculation.

That's good to know. I was worried that taking a part-time job would mess up my benefit calculation completely.

Yes, you can request a redetermination if you think there's an error. You'll need documentation of your wages to prove the mistake. This is another situation where being able to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD is crucial.

I might need to try that Claimyr service then. I've had no luck getting through on my own.