On Feb. 16, Governor Chris Gregoire signed into law a bill to temporarily increase unemployment benefits by $45 per week for all unemployed workers in Washington who receive state benefits.

The benefits won’t increase until May 3 and will continue through claims filed by Jan. 3, 2010.

Meanwhile, the federal stimulus package includes $25 per week for unemployed workers. All together, that’s an extra $280 per month.

In addition, there’s a permanent increase in Washington for the minimum claim paid, from $129 per week to $155.

But there are some factors that may effect how much money you get and when.

Here are some resources to help you navigate the new law:

Employment Security Department: Find out if you’re eligible and apply for benefits online.

Here are some details you’ll need to know to determine whether you’re eligible for increased benefits.

Here is how the unemployment increase could affect the unemployment insurance trust fund.

Here is a directory of all the posts about unemployment we’ve written.

Access Washington: A state government Web site with links to other resources.

Office of Financial Management: Unemployment rates over the years in Washington state.

Have more questions? Send them to nikis@tvw.org and I’ll do my best to find the answer and post here.