2026 · Washington
Washington unemployment benefits
Washington pays up to $1,208 a week for up to 26 weeks, one of the highest maximums in the country (#1 of 51). Estimate yours below.
Only some states pay a dependent allowance.
An estimate only, your state agency sets your actual benefit. Nothing you enter is stored.
Washington's 2026 figures
| Weekly benefit range | $383 - $1,208 |
| Maximum duration | 26 weeks (max $1,208 for claims on/after 2026-07-05) |
| Waiting week | Yes, one unpaid week |
| How it's figured | two high quarters |
| Taxed by Washington? | No, state-tax-free |
Worked example: a $60,000 earner in Washington
On a $60,000 prior wage, the estimate is about $577 a week (within Washington's $383-$1,208 range). Over 26 weeks that's up to $15,002 in total. Washington has an unpaid one-week waiting week, so your first payment covers the second week you claim.
Questions about Washington unemployment
How much does Washington pay in unemployment?
Between $383 and $1,208 a week in 2026, based on your prior wages (two high quarters). The $1,208 maximum is one of the highest maximums in the country (#1 of 51).
How long does Washington unemployment last?
Up to 26 weeksmax $1,208 for claims on/after 2026-07-05. That's separate from the weekly amount; low earners may qualify for fewer weeks.
Is Washington unemployment taxed?
Federally, yes, it's ordinary income (elect 10% withholding on Form W-4V). Washington does not tax it, it's state-tax-free.
Does severance affect my Washington unemployment?
Filing timing can matter. Some states delay or reduce unemployment while severance is being paid, and the rule varies. Washington's treatment is not modeled here, confirm the timing with Washington Employment Security Department (ESD) before you file, since it is a real-money decision.
File with Washington Employment Security Department (ESD). This is an estimate, Washington Employment Security Department (ESD) determines your actual benefit.
Your Washington layoff toolkit
- Washington severance tax the tax on your severance
- Runway calculator how long your money lasts
- Washington paycheck calculator your take-home when you're back at work
- Washington 1099 tax if you go freelance or contract
An estimate, Washington's agency determines your actual benefit. Figures from the verified 2026 dataset, last verified 2026-07-24. Nothing you enter is stored. Not tax or legal advice.