What is the max you can get on unemployment in Washington - weekly benefit amount limits?

Thanks! So if I made $85k last year, I should qualify for close to the maximum then?

It depends on how your earnings were distributed across quarters. Washington ESD looks at your highest quarter, not your total annual income. If your $85k was spread evenly, each quarter would be around $21k, which might put you slightly below the max.

Wait, I didn't know about the dependent allowance! Do you have to apply for that separately or does Washington ESD automatically add it?

You need to report your dependents when you file your initial claim. Washington ESD doesn't automatically know about them.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr (claimyr.com). They help you get through to Washington ESD agents by handling the calling for you. Check out their demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ - it's actually pretty helpful for situations like yours where you need to verify your benefit calculation.

Interesting, I'll check that out. I'm so frustrated with trying to call on my own.

Washington actually has one of the higher maximum benefits in the country. The maximum is tied to the state's average wage, so it reflects our local economy.

Still doesn't feel like enough when you're actually living on it

Your weekly benefit amount stays the same throughout your benefit year, assuming you remain eligible. It doesn't decrease over time. You can receive benefits for up to 26 weeks in most cases.

Good to know, thanks! That makes planning a bit easier.

Wait, there's still a waiting week? I thought they eliminated that during COVID.

The waiting week requirement was reinstated in 2023. So yeah, your first week is unpaid even if you're eligible.

That's helpful! So it's based on your two highest quarters, not just one?

Actually, I need to correct myself - it's based on your total base period wages (all four quarters), not just the two highest. My mistake!

How does that work exactly? Do they just call for you?

Yeah, they handle the calling process and connect you directly with Washington ESD agents. Saves you from sitting on hold for hours or getting disconnected.

There could be several reasons - maybe some of your wages weren't reported correctly, or you had earnings from out-of-state that aren't being counted. You should definitely contact Washington ESD to review your wage records.

Yeah, that's what I'm trying to do but can't get through to anyone.

This is exactly the kind of situation where Claimyr can help. Getting wage record discrepancies resolved usually requires speaking with an actual Washington ESD representative.

The maximum weekly benefit is set annually and typically doesn't change mid-year. Washington ESD announces the new rates each year, usually effective July 1st.

Thanks, that's what I thought but wasn't sure.

What are the current job search requirements? I'm about to file and want to know what to expect.

you need to do 3 job search activities per week and keep a log. can be applications, networking, job fairs, etc. just make sure you document everything

It's approximately 3.85% of your total base period wages, but there are minimum and maximum limits. The calculation can get complex if you have wages from multiple states or certain types of employment.

Ah ok, that makes more sense. Thanks for explaining it simply.

Oh that's useful! I didn't know there was a calculator available.

Yeah, it's pretty helpful for planning purposes. Just keep in mind it's an estimate - your actual benefit might be different.

Adjudication can take weeks or even months depending on the issue. What's the reason for your adjudication?

Something about my reason for leaving my last job. It's been 6 weeks now with no resolution.

Adjudication delays are another good reason to use Claimyr. Sometimes speaking directly with an agent can help clarify what additional information they need to process your claim.

Yes, it's adjusted annually based on changes in the state's average weekly wage. It's been increasing pretty consistently over the past few years.

That's good at least. Helps keep up with inflation somewhat.

Yes, all wages reported to Washington ESD count toward your benefit calculation, including overtime. As long as it shows up on your wage record, it's included.

Great, thanks! I worked a lot of overtime last year so that should help my benefit amount.

How long do you have to appeal a benefit determination?

I believe it's 30 days from when they mail you the determination, but don't quote me on that. Best to check with Washington ESD directly.

Good luck with your claim! Make sure to file as soon as possible since benefits don't go back to when you became unemployed, only from when you file.

will do, thanks for the reminder!

So if I find a job after 10 weeks and then lose it again 6 months later, I could still use the remaining 16 weeks?

Exactly, as long as you're still within your benefit year. Just make sure to report any work and wages during that time.

True, some states have maximum benefits that are like $300/week. We're lucky here in Washington.

Yeah, definitely puts things in perspective.