How Much Unemployment Pays in Washington
How Washington calculates weekly unemployment benefits, the current minimum and maximum, and how many weeks you can collect.
Short answer: ESD averages your wages in the two highest-paid quarters of your base year and multiplies the result by 3.85%. The weekly benefit cannot be more than $1,208. Washington ESD, Estimate your benefit, "How we calculate your weekly benefit amount"
| Weekly benefit amount | ESD averages your wages in the two highest-paid quarters of your base year and multiplies the result by 3.85%. The weekly benefit cannot be more than $1,208. If the result is under $383, you get $383 or your estimated weekly wage, whichever is less. Maximum $1,208 per week, the current figure on ESD's page as of October 2026. The effective date was not stated on the page. |
|---|---|
| How many weeks | Normally up to 26 weeks of regular benefits in a 52-week benefit year. Extended Benefits may be available when the state's unemployment rate is high. |
| Waiting week | Yes. The first week you are eligible is an unpaid waiting week. There is only one per benefit year. You must still file a weekly claim and complete your job search for that week. |
Where to get help in Washington
More Washington unemployment benefits
- Logging In to Your Washington Unemployment Claim
- Unemployment for Self-Employed and Gig Workers in Washington
- Unemployment After Being Fired in Washington
- Unemployment After Quitting in Washington
- How to File for Unemployment in Washington
- All Washington unemployment benefits rules
FAQ
How much is unemployment in Washington?
ESD averages your wages in the two highest-paid quarters of your base year and multiplies the result by 3.85%. The weekly benefit cannot be more than $1,208. If the result is under $383, you get $383 or your estimated weekly wage, whichever is less.
How long can you get unemployment in Washington?
Normally up to 26 weeks of regular benefits in a 52-week benefit year. Extended Benefits may be available when the state's unemployment rate is high.
Is there a waiting week for unemployment in Washington?
Yes. The first week you are eligible is an unpaid waiting week. There is only one per benefit year. You must still file a weekly claim and complete your job search for that week.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.