District residents receiving unemployment insurance will soon see an increase in benefits because of changes implemented earlier this month by D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser. The District of Columbia’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) program will increase benefits to residents eligible for unemployment to as much as $425 per week – up from the previous maximum payment of $359, for up to 26 weeks.
The increase marks the first adjustment since 2005, when the maximum weekly benefit was raised from $309 to $359. The new $425 rate brings the District into alignment with other states in the region – Maryland ($430), Virginia ($378) and West Virginia ($424).
“My administration has fought together alongside workers to raise the minimum wage and now increase unemployment benefits for the first time in 11 years. This is huge step toward ensuring District workers and their families are able to better take care of their basic needs while searching for their next employment opportunity,” said Bowser.
Additionally, those with part-time work earnings will see a 14 percent increase in their weekly benefit payouts, a change that will make it easier for claimants to hold part-time jobs.
“It’s wonderful news for me,” Ward 8 resident Janae Briggs told the AFRO. “Even with a college degree and 11 years’ experience, I have found it difficult to get another position. Knowing that my benefits will show an increase, means a bit more security until that job comes.”
Claimants currently receiving UI payments will be mailed a monetary redetermination letter indicating their weekly benefit amount. Customers can visit does.dc.gov for answers to frequently asked questions, or visit one of the American Job Center (AJC) locations below: AJC Headquarters – 4058 Minnesota Avenue, Northwest, AJC Northeast – 5171 South Dakota Avenue, Northeast, AJC Northwest – 2000 14th Street, Northwest, and AJC Southeast – 3720 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, Southeast.
“As the Bowser Administration works to get more residents on pathways to the middle class, this increase in unemployment insurance benefits is one more example of how we can help stabilize families during a time of economic hardship,” said Deputy Mayor for Greater Economic Opportunity Courtney Snowden.