Washington’s average wage increased by 4.2 percent

Average weekly wages in Washington rose more than $1,000 over the last year. The annual wage increased by 4.2 percent in 2014 to $54,829, the largest percentage increase since 2007, a state Employment Security Department news release said. These figures only cover wages eligible for unemployment insurance. The average number of workers covered by unemployment insurance also grew by 62,942 to more than 2.9 million. Wages in the information sector grew by 10.3 percent, art, entertainment and recreation grew by 6.5 percent and retail trade grew by 4.3 percent. Because of the overall increase, the minimum weekly unemployment benefit rose to $158. The maximum weekly benefit also rose to $664. Unemployment claims filed on or after July 5 are eligible for the weekly increase.