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Washington DC Unemployment Insurance

What to expect if you file for unemployment benefits in Washington DC

Max weekly benefit

$444

Max duration

26 weeks

Max total benefit

$11,544

How benefit is calculated1/23 of high-quarter wages
Waiting weekNo waiting week
StateWashington DC (DC)
File for unemployment in Washington DC
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About Washington DC unemployment insurance

In Washington DC, the maximum weekly unemployment benefit is $444 and benefits can last up to 26 weeks. Your actual benefit amount depends on your wage history — 1/23 of high-quarter wages.

To qualify, you must have lost your job through no fault of your own (layoffs qualify; quitting or being fired for cause typically does not). You must be actively searching for work each week you claim benefits.

File as soon as possible after your last day — there is typically a 2–4 week processing delay between filing and receiving your first payment.