(WASHINGTON, DC) – This week, Mayor Bowser implemented changes to the District of Columbia’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) program. With the changes, residents who are eligible for unemployment insurance benefits will be able to receive up to $425 per week, up from the previous maximum payment of $359, for up to 26 weeks. Furthermore, those with part-time work earnings will see a 14% increase in their weekly benefit payouts, a change that will make it easier for claimants to hold part-time jobs.

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 Mayor Muriel Bowser.

Claimants who are currently receiving UI payments will be mailed a monetary redetermination letter indicating their weekly benefit amount. Customers are encouraged to 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, NE
• AJC Northeast – 5171 South Dakota Avenue, NE
• AJC Northwest – 2000 14th Street, NW
• AJC Southeast – 3720 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE

“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.
                                                                                                                                                                                                        
The Office of Unemployment Compensation at the Department of Employment Services (DOES) serves claimants and employers of more than 30,000 businesses in and around the District of Columbia. The District offers two ways to file for unemployment compensation – on the internet and by telephone. Customers seeking unemployment benefits are strongly encouraged to apply at dcnetworks.org. Customers may also contact the UI Call Center at (202) 724-7000 to speak with a live operator, Monday-Friday, 8 am – 6 pm.