What is the minimum unemployment benefit amount in Washington state?

That's actually higher than I expected! Do you know if this applies to all types of unemployment benefits or just regular UI?

This minimum applies to regular unemployment insurance. Other programs like standby or partial benefits might have different calculations.

Good point, I'll make sure to check for current year amounts

How do I figure out what my base period is? I'm confused about the dates they use.

Your base period is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you filed. So if you filed in January 2025, your base period would likely be January 2024 through December 2024.

Wait, I thought it was different quarters? This is so confusing, Washington ESD really needs to explain this better on their website.

Is this legit? I'm always skeptical of third-party services for government stuff.

Yeah it's legitimate, they just help you get through the phone queue. I was able to speak with a Washington ESD rep within 20 minutes instead of calling for days.

That's a pretty wide range. Is there a simple way to estimate where I'd fall?

Generally your weekly benefit is about 3.85% of your average quarterly wages during your base period, but it gets capped at the minimum and maximum amounts.

The Washington ESD website does have a benefit calculator tool, though it's not the most user-friendly interface.

I tried using that calculator but it wanted all these specific wage amounts that I don't have memorized

How many job contacts do I need to make each week for the job search requirement?

You need to make at least 3 job search activities per week and keep a log of them. This can include applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking activities, etc.

That's reassuring to hear. How long does it usually take after filing to start receiving payments?

Mine took about 2 weeks but I didn't have any issues with my claim. If you have to go through adjudication it can take much longer.

I understand the frustration, but the benefit amounts are set by state law and adjusted annually based on wage data.

Yeah well the law needs to change because people can't survive on these amounts

I've tried calling but I can never get through. The line is always busy or I get disconnected.

That's exactly why I mentioned Claimyr earlier - they solve that exact problem of not being able to get through to Washington ESD on the phone.

How can I check if all my wages were reported correctly?

You can request a wage and hour statement from Washington ESD or check your quarterly wage statements that employers are supposed to provide.

The easiest way is honestly to just file your claim and let Washington ESD calculate it for you. They'll tell you your benefit amount once your claim is processed.

I guess that makes sense. I was worried about filing if I wasn't going to qualify but I should probably just try it.

I didn't know unemployment was taxable! Should I have taxes withheld?

It's usually a good idea to have the 10% federal tax withheld so you don't owe a big amount at tax time. Washington doesn't have state income tax so you don't worry about that.

Yeah I was thinking the same thing initially. It's good to know it's higher than minimum wage at least.

Thanks for all the detailed info! This has been really helpful in understanding how the benefit amounts work.

Agreed, this thread covers most of the key points about Washington unemployment benefit amounts.

Good to know there's an appeal process if something goes wrong with the calculation.

Yes, and you typically have 30 days from the date of the determination to file an appeal, so don't wait too long if you think there's an issue.

I might have to try that if I can't figure out my benefit amount from the online tools

Definitely worth it if you're stuck. The video demo I mentioned earlier really shows how much easier it makes the whole process.

Same here! Really appreciate everyone sharing their knowledge and experiences.

That's good to know for the future if I find part-time work while still looking for full-time employment.

Exactly, and you still need to report all earnings on your weekly claims even if it's just a few hours of work.

Yeah it's reassuring to know that part-time work still counts toward qualifying for benefits. I was worried I hadn't worked enough hours.

The hours don't matter as much as the total wages earned during your base period. That was the part that confused me at first too.