Washington ESD unemployment benefits amount - how much are unemployment benefits?

Thanks! So it's based on what I earned in 2024 then? How do they actually calculate the specific dollar amount?

They take your highest earning quarter from your base year, divide by 13, then multiply by 0.0385. There's also a minimum of $295 per week if you qualify.

A waiting week? So I won't get paid for the first week I file?

Exactly. You file your first weekly claim but don't get paid for it. It's just how the system works unfortunately.

Is that legitimate? I'm always worried about scams when it comes to unemployment stuff.

Yeah it's real. They just help you get through the phone system faster. I was skeptical too but it actually worked when I couldn't reach anyone for weeks.

I used Claimyr too when my claim was stuck in adjudication. Worth it just to talk to an actual person at Washington ESD.

I'll check that out! Do I need to have my tax documents ready when I file?

Not necessarily for filing, but it helps to have your W-2s and pay stubs handy in case there are questions about your earnings.

I know right? Every state does it differently too which makes it even more confusing if you've moved around.

exactly! and then they make you wait forever just to find out if you even qualify

Oh wow, I didn't know they were taxable. How much should I expect to owe in taxes?

Depends on your total income for the year, but generally plan for 10-22% federal plus state taxes. You can have 10% withheld automatically.

How long does it usually take to get approved and start receiving payments?

If everything goes smoothly, about 2-3 weeks. But if your claim goes into adjudication for any reason, could be much longer.

What causes a claim to go into adjudication?

I was laid off due to budget cuts, so hopefully that won't be an issue.

That should be straightforward then. Just make sure you have documentation about the layoff if needed.

What counts as a job search activity?

Applying for jobs, networking events, career fairs, interviews, even some online training courses. Keep detailed records in case they audit you.

When do I file the weekly claims? Is there a specific day?

You can file starting Sunday for the previous week. I always do mine Sunday morning so I don't forget.

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier. Saved me hours of calling and getting hung up on.

might have to try that because this is driving me crazy

I've only worked in Washington for the past 3 years so that shouldn't apply to me.

Perfect, that makes it much simpler. Your Washington wages will be used for the calculation.

No, Washington doesn't provide additional benefits for dependents. Your weekly benefit amount is based solely on your work history and earnings.

thats disappointing but good to know

How much can I earn before it affects my benefits?

You can earn up to your weekly benefit amount plus $5 before it starts getting deducted dollar for dollar. So if your benefit is $500, you can earn up to $505 without reduction.

That sounds scary. How did the overpayment happen?

I didn't report some freelance work I did and they caught it during an audit. Always better to be honest upfront.

Do many people actually get the maximum amount?

Not many. You'd need to have been earning around $65,000+ annually with consistent quarterly earnings to hit the max.

Definitely planning to start applying for jobs right away. This is just to help me get by until I find something.

That's the right attitude. Good luck with your job search!

That's a great idea. I'll look those up before I start filing.

yeah it made the whole process way less intimidating for me

Good point. I'll start a folder to keep everything organized.

Smart move. Organization will save you headaches if any issues come up down the road.

You're welcome! Don't hesitate to ask if you run into any issues during the filing process.

Good luck! Hope your claim goes through smoothly and you find a new job soon.