What is unemployment now in Washington state - confused about current rates and benefits

Wow that's way more than what my sister got! How do they calculate it exactly?

It's based on your highest earning quarter in your base year. Washington ESD uses a formula where your weekly benefit is roughly 3.85% of your highest quarter wages.

Do I have to apply to jobs I don't want or can I be picky about what I apply for?

You need to apply for suitable work which generally means jobs in your field or at 80% of your previous wage. But after a certain period those requirements get looser.

I had the same problem until I found Claimyr. It's a service that gets you through to Washington ESD agents automatically. Check out claimyr.com - they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ that shows exactly how it works.

That sounds too good to be true. How much does it cost?

It's worth it when you're desperate to get answers. Way better than spending hours on hold just to get hung up on.

The system isn't perfect but it does provide crucial support. The job search requirements exist to help people get back to work faster.

yeah right, it's just bureaucratic nonsense that makes people feel worse about being unemployed

How do I file weekly claims? Is it online?

Yes through the SecureAccess Washington portal. You answer questions about any work you did that week and confirm you're still looking for work.

This is all so complicated. I wish there was someone to walk me through it.

Thank you! That's exactly what I needed to know. Do I apply online?

Yes, file your initial claim at esd.wa.gov. Have your Social Security number, employment history for the past 18 months, and bank info ready.

What kind of documents do they need?

Driver's license, Social Security card, birth certificate. Sometimes they want employment records too. The ID verification can take 2-3 weeks.

Ugh I didn't think about taxes. Should I have them withhold it automatically?

Probably yes unless you want a big tax bill next year. It's 10% federal withholding option.

I wouldn't lie but what if I'm not sure about exact dates or something?

Get as close as you can and note any uncertainty. Better to be approximately honest than exactly wrong.

Good tip! When exactly can I start filing each week?

Usually Saturday night or Sunday morning for the previous week. Check your account for the exact timeline.

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

They have some system that gets through the busy phone lines. I'm not sure exactly how but it worked when I needed help with an adjudication issue.

Are those free? I can't afford to pay for training right now.

Most WorkSource services are free including job search assistance, resume help, and some training programs.

That's encouraging! How long from filing to getting paid?

like 5 days total, but I had all my documents ready and no issues with my employer info

Where do you find the good paying jobs? Indeed seems to be mostly low wage stuff.

Try WorkSource, LinkedIn, company websites directly. Sometimes the best jobs never make it to Indeed.

I was laid off due to slow business, so that should be okay right?

Yes that's exactly the situation unemployment is designed for. You should have no problem qualifying.

Good to know. What if I do like one DoorDash delivery, do I really have to report that?

Technically yes. Any work has to be reported when you file your weekly claim. Better safe than sorry.

Really? What did you need help with?

had a question about my base year wages, the person was really helpful and fixed it right away

Definitely. I'm hoping to find something quickly but it's good to have this safety net while I look.

Exactly the right attitude. Good luck with your job search!

Thank you everyone for all the helpful information! I feel much more confident about applying now.

You're welcome! Don't hesitate to ask if you run into any specific issues during the application process.