What is the maximum weekly unemployment benefit in Washington ESD 2025?

Thank you! That's really helpful. I think I should qualify for close to the maximum based on my salary.

wait is that before or after taxes? because i thought unemployment was taxable

Good to know about the tax withholding option. I'll definitely want to do that to avoid a big tax bill later.

I learned this the hard way last year - definitely have them withhold taxes or set money aside yourself!

I'm still confused about the base year thing. Is that the last 4 quarters or something different?

The base year is the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters before you file. So if you file in January 2025, your base year would be October 2023 through September 2024.

OMG YES! I've probably spent 20+ hours trying to get through. It's absolutely ridiculous. There has to be a better way to reach them.

I actually found a service called Claimyr that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. They handle the calling and waiting for you. Check out claimyr.com - they even have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

Yeah it worked for me. I was having the same issue - couldn't get through no matter when I called. They got me connected to an agent who was able to explain what was holding up my claim.

How much does something like that cost though? Seems like it might be expensive.

It's not bad considering how much time and frustration it saves. Way cheaper than missing work to sit on hold all day.

That's a good point. I did some freelance work last year in addition to my main job. I'll make sure to include all of that.

do they automatically know about all your jobs or do you have to tell them?

They should have records from employers who paid unemployment taxes, but it's good to double-check and make sure everything is included.

True, though the cost of living here is also pretty high so it evens out somewhat.

Better than nothing though! I'm grateful for any help while I'm job searching.

26 weeks should hopefully be enough time to find something new. The job market seems pretty good right now, at least in my field.

Yeah hopefully! Just make sure you're doing your job search requirements too or they'll cut off your benefits.

Yes, Washington adjusts the maximum benefit amount annually based on the state's average annual wage. It's recalculated each October for the following year.

That makes sense. At least it keeps up with wage growth somewhat.

Washington ESD calculates your benefit amount automatically based on your wage history. You don't choose the amount - it's determined by their formula.

Got it, thanks! I was worried I might mess something up in the application.

How much can you earn before it affects your benefits? Like if I do a small freelance project?

In Washington, you can earn up to your weekly benefit amount before they start reducing your payment. So if your benefit is $500, you can earn up to $500 without any reduction.

Agreed! Sometimes the real people explanations are clearer than the official stuff.

Same here! I feel much better prepared to file my claim now.

I might have to try that. I've been putting off calling Washington ESD because I know it's going to be a nightmare.

Definitely worth it if you need to actually talk to someone. The automated system only goes so far.

Are there still any special programs running? I thought most of the pandemic stuff ended.

Most of the federal programs ended, but Washington sometimes has state-specific programs. Check the Washington ESD website for current offerings.

Definitely! This whole thread should be pinned or something.

Agreed! Thank you all for taking the time to share your knowledge and experiences.