Unemployment benefits are calculated based on earnings. To calculate the benefit amount:
1. Add the total wages for the two highest quarters in the past year*.
2. Divide the total by two.
3. Multiply by 0.0385.
This is the weekly benefit amount, up to a maximum that is established in state law. The minimum and maximun weekly benefit amount will vary due to 2009 state and federal stimulus packages and the date on which an individual's claim takes effect.
The regular minimum and maximum is $133 and $560. Some claimants, based on the date their calim took effect, are eligible for a higher minimum ($155 a week) plus a $45 state stimulus increase and/or a $25 federal stimulus increase in their weekly benefit amount.
Individuals who file new claims prior to Jan. 3, 2010, are eligible for the $45 state stimulus on benefit payments through May 9, 2010.
Individuals who file new claims prior to Feb. 27, 2010, are eligible for the $25 federal stimulus on benefit payments through July 31, 2010. A person can collect "regular" unemployment benefits for a maximum of up to 26 weeks.
Note: In 2008, as unemployment rates rose across the country, Congress approved Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) for people who had run out of regular benefits. In Washington, this provides up to 53 additional weeks of benefits on top of regular unemployment for qualified applicants. For more about EUC and 'extended benefits' (which pay up to 20 additional weeks during periods of high unemployment), see the "Emergency Unemployment Compensation & Extended Benefits" fact sheet.
* Benefits are calculated based on wages from the previous base year, not the calendar year. The base year if the first four of the last five calendar quarters.
Answered by webmasterAge : 44 1 month ago
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