Washington ESD unemployment benefit amounts - how much is unemployment per week in 2025?

That's really helpful! So if my highest quarter was around $15,000, I'd be looking at maybe $550-600 per week?

Roughly yes, but Washington ESD has specific calculation tables. You can estimate using their online calculator on the ESD website under 'Benefit Estimator'.

Yeah that sounds about right for what I'm expecting. Did you have any issues with your claim getting approved?

nah mine went through pretty quick, maybe 2 weeks before i got my first payment

I don't have any kids so that wouldn't apply to me. Good to know though for others reading this.

Wait I didn't know about the dependent benefits! I have two kids - do I need to report that somewhere specific when I file?

Yes, there's a section in the initial application where you report dependents. Make sure you have their social security numbers ready.

How does that work exactly? Do they just keep calling for you?

Yeah basically they handle the calling and waiting, then connect you when they get an agent on the line. Super helpful when you need specific answers about your claim.

That's interesting, I might need that if I run into issues with my claim calculation.

Good to know about the minimum! 26 weeks should hopefully be enough time to find something new.

26 weeks goes by faster than you think, especially in this job market. Start applying right away even while your claim is processing.

You can work part-time but you have to report all earnings on your weekly claim. Washington ESD deducts $5 plus 75% of your gross earnings from your weekly benefit amount.

So if I made $100 in a week, they'd deduct $80 from my benefits? That's still worth it I think.

Exactly. Just make sure you report it accurately on your weekly claim or you could face an overpayment issue later.

I understand the frustration. The calculation does involve multiple factors which can make it complex. Your best bet is to file the claim and let ESD calculate it officially.

I guess you're right, I'm just worried about budgeting without knowing the exact amount.

What kind of documentation did you need beyond the basic employment info?

Pay stubs from your last few months of work, your separation notice from your employer, and ID verification. Having everything ready speeds up the process.

the waiting is the worst part! once you get that first payment though it's a relief

Yeah I'm just trying to stay patient. Good thing I had some savings to get me through these first few weeks.

Oh wow, I didn't think about that. Probably better to have them withhold the taxes upfront.

Definitely, unless you're good at setting money aside for taxes. That 10% adds up over time.

That makes sense, $750 sounds about right for someone at that income level.

Tech layoffs have been brutal lately. At least the unemployment benefits help cushion the blow somewhat.

Good to know there are options if I can't get through on my own. The phone system sounds like a nightmare.

It really is. I gave up trying to call after spending 3 hours on hold just to get disconnected.

What counts as a job search activity? Just applying to jobs or other things too?

Job applications, networking events, career fairs, informational interviews, updating your resume with a professional - lots of things count. Keep good records.

You can find the full list of acceptable job search activities on the WorkSourceWA website. It's more flexible than just submitting applications.

I know what you mean, it'll be strange getting paid without working even though it's money I've contributed to.

That's exactly what it is - you paid into the system through your payroll taxes. You earned this safety net.

Thanks for the heads up! I'll make sure to set that up when I complete my application.

Yeah those ATM fees add up quick if you're not careful about which machines you use.

That's a good idea, I didn't know WorkSource could help with ESD questions too.

They work together pretty closely. The WorkSource folks are usually less swamped than the ESD phone lines.

Good point, I need to factor that into my budgeting. Still better than nothing though!

Absolutely! And it beats scrambling to pay a big tax bill next April.

That's reassuring to hear! I'm hoping my case will be straightforward like yours.

Same here, I'm filing next week and hoping for a quick turnaround.

Interesting, I didn't realize it was locked in for the full year. That's actually helpful for budgeting consistency.

Exactly. The benefit year starts when you file your initial claim, regardless of when you actually start collecting benefits.

This has been super helpful, thanks everyone! I feel much more prepared to file my claim now.

Glad we could help! This community is great for getting real answers about ESD stuff.