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

So if my highest quarter was around $15,000, that would be about $22 per week? That seems really low.

No, you're doing the math wrong. $15,000 divided by 26 is $577, then multiply by 0.0385 = about $22. Wait, that does seem off. Let me double check the formula.

That's way better than what I thought! So even if your calculation comes out lower, you still get at least $295?

Exactly. As long as you meet the minimum earnings requirements to qualify, you'll get at least $295 per week.

I had the same problem until I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com). They handle the calling for you and actually get you connected to Washington ESD agents. There's a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows how it works.

Is that legit? I'm desperate enough to try anything at this point.

Yeah it's real. I used it last month when I couldn't reach anyone about my adjudication issue. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.

I looked but couldn't find a calculator on their site. Can you share the link?

hmm maybe they removed it? i swear it used to be there

How much extra per child?

I think it's around $25 per child but don't quote me on that. You'd need to check with Washington ESD.

It's the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file your claim. So if you file in January 2025, they look at January-December 2024 as your base period.

Thanks that makes more sense. I was worried they wouldn't count my recent earnings.

Yes, all wages reported to Washington ESD count including overtime, bonuses, commissions, etc.

Good to know, that should help my benefit amount then.

Agreed! Every other state seems to have clearer info on their websites.

Washington ESD's website is terrible for finding basic information. I always end up more confused after reading it.

No, Washington eliminated the waiting week during COVID and it hasn't come back. You get paid for your first week if you're eligible.

Oh good, I was worried about that. Thanks for clarifying.

That actually sounds about right. Remember it's based on your highest earning quarter, not your full year income. If your earnings were spread evenly, your highest quarter would be around $11,250, which would calculate to about $380 weekly.

I guess that makes sense, just seems like such a big drop from my regular pay.

Yes but your benefits will be reduced dollar for dollar after the first $5 you earn. So if you make $100 that week, your UI benefit would be reduced by $95.

That's not much incentive to work part-time then.

Mine took about 10 days but I filed right after getting laid off. If there are any issues with your work history or wages it can take longer.

I'm starting to worry something went wrong with my application.

If you're concerned, you might want to try calling them. I used Claimyr when I had questions about my determination and they got me through to an agent pretty quickly.

No, your weekly benefit amount stays the same throughout your claim. But you can only collect for a maximum of 26 weeks in Washington unless there are extended benefits available.

Good to know, I was worried it would start decreasing after a few months.

If you worked in other states during your base period, you can file an interstate claim to combine wages from all states. This might increase your benefit amount.

That's helpful, I worked in Oregon for part of last year.

Generally no, unless you opted into the voluntary program for self-employed individuals. Most self-employed people don't qualify for regular UI benefits.

Darn, I didn't know about the voluntary program. Too late now I guess.

Thanks! I'll look for that. The official Washington ESD site is so hard to navigate.

Just remember third party calculators are estimates only. Your actual benefit amount might be different.

Yes, you can appeal your monetary determination if you think the wage information is wrong or the calculation is incorrect. You have 30 days from the date of the letter to file an appeal.

How do I file an appeal? Is there a form or do I need to call?

There should be appeal instructions on your determination letter. You can usually file online through your eServices account or by mail.

I totally understand. The uncertainty is the worst part. Once you get your determination letter though, at least you'll know for sure what your weekly amount will be.

Yeah, I'm just anxious about how long it's taking. It's been over a week since I filed.

That's reassuring. I was worried it would be barely enough to live on.

Yeah but most people don't get the maximum. It depends on your previous earnings.

If wages are missing, you can provide your own documentation like pay stubs or W-2 forms. Contact Washington ESD to request a wage investigation if needed.

Good to know. I kept all my pay stubs just in case.

This is another situation where being able to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD would be helpful. I'd definitely recommend trying Claimyr if you need to discuss wage issues with an agent.