Washington ESD unemployment weekly benefit amount - how much can I get in 2025?

Thanks! So if I made $13,000 in my highest quarter, that would be $500 per week average, so my UI benefit would be around $480 weekly?

That sounds about right based on the formula. You can also use the benefit calculator on the Washington ESD website to get an exact estimate.

I've been working steadily for the past 2 years so that shouldn't be an issue for me.

yeah the base period thing trips up a lot of people, especially if you just started a new job recently

How much does that service cost? I've been trying to reach Washington ESD for weeks about my claim.

It was worth it to finally talk to someone who could explain the benefit calculation properly. Much easier than spending hours on hold.

Never heard of that before but might try it if I can't get through the regular way

Good point about the weekly claims. Do I have to do job searches every week too?

Yes, you need to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log. Washington ESD can audit your job search activities.

What kind of issue? I want to make sure mine gets calculated correctly.

They missed some wages from a previous employer. Had to send in paystubs to get it corrected. Took about 3 weeks to fix.

That's why it's important to double-check your wage record when you file your initial claim.

How long have you been waiting? I'm worried about delays.

about 10 days so far, they said it could take up to 3 weeks for the initial determination

It depends on when you file your claim. Washington ESD uses specific quarters for the base period calculation, not just your most recent wages.

This is so confusing. Maybe I should call them to get it explained properly.

That's exactly why I used Claimyr - trying to understand base period calculations over the phone with Washington ESD was impossible until I got connected to someone who had time to explain it.

Oh I didn't know that! Should I have taxes withheld or pay later?

Depends on your situation. If you're going to owe a lot at tax time anyway, might be easier to have them withheld.

Yes, the maximum weekly benefit amount is adjusted annually based on the state's average weekly wage.

good to know thanks

What counts as actively looking for work? Just applying online or do I need to do more?

You need at least 3 job search activities per week. Can be applications, networking, job fairs, interviews, etc. Keep detailed records.

they can actually audit your job search log so don't just make stuff up

Yes, if you earn more than 1/3 of your weekly benefit amount, Washington ESD will reduce your unemployment payment dollar for dollar above that threshold.

So if my weekly benefit is $450, I can earn up to $150 without any reduction?

Exactly. And you have to report all earnings when you file your weekly claim, even if it's just a few dollars.

I might try that. Been on hold for 2 hours today and got disconnected again.

same thing happened to me yesterday, so annoying

Good luck! Make sure you have all your employment information ready when you file online.

And remember to file your weekly claims on time every week once you're approved.

Will do, thanks again for all the advice!

Happy to help! The Washington ESD system can be confusing but once you understand how it works it's not too bad.

Yes, you can appeal the monetary determination if you think your weekly benefit amount is wrong. You have 30 days from the date of the determination to file an appeal.

Good to know, thanks. Hopefully it won't come to that but nice to have options.

That's great! Was it close to what you expected based on your wages?

yeah pretty close, maybe $20 less than i calculated but close enough

I don't have any retirement income yet but good to know for the future.

My dad had issues with this when he filed for unemployment. His small pension reduced his weekly benefit.

might give it a try if i have issues with my claim

I'm definitely going to check out that video demo you mentioned earlier.

Agreed, this thread helped me understand it much better. Really appreciate everyone's input!

Always happy to help people navigate the Washington ESD system. It can be overwhelming at first but gets easier.

thanks! same to you

Thanks! This community has been really helpful.