Unemployment Insurance Benefits offered by Washington State Employment Security

Agency is located in a secured facility and is not open to the public.

Eligibility

Anyone in Washington state who has worked at least 680 hours during the base year (determined by Employment Security) can file for unemployment. Eligibility is dependent upon an individual's ability to work, availability for work and the reason (lay-off, discharge, voluntary quit) for present unemployment. At least some wages must have been earned in Washington, unless you recently left the military and are currently located in Washington state.

Hours

Unemployment Claim Center: M-F, 8am-4pm.

(800) 318-6022

Voice

https://esd.wa.gov/unemployment

Languages

Spanish, Multi-lingual materials, Interpreter services

Application process

Call the main line to apply or access the website. Phone or Internet applications are required. To apply for benefits by telephone, a claimant will need their Social Security number. Call must be made before 4pm on Friday in order to receive credit for the week.

Fees

None.

Service area

Other Information

Languages

Spanish

Interpreter services

Multi-lingual materials

Description

Provides initial claim application and certification process for unemployment insurance benefits. A Washington claim is available only for the benefit year. Another new claim cannot be filed until that year is over. Provides up to 26 weeks of unemployment benefits. Application for Benefits and Weekly Claims is available in Spanish. Weekly Claims Line Filing Instructions are available in multiple languages: Each week a claim is filed, claimants must make at least three work search contacts or participate in an approved in-person job search activity at the local WorkSource center. Employment Security Department is a lead partner of WorkSource. Website also lists jobs in the state of Washington, searchable by county and title of occupation. Offers worker retraining services as a partnership between community and technical colleges and the Washington State Employment Security. Provides funding and other resources to enable unemployed individuals to acquire the skills needed to return to work. This could mean a short-term skills upgrade or a new career path and enrollment in a professional technical program.

What's Here

State Unemployment Insurance Applications

Providing organization

Washington State Employment Security

Coordinates the unemployment insurance benefits program for the state of Washington. Program includes benefits for individuals who voluntarily leave work due to domestic violence or stalking. Provides services to citizens seeking work through WorkSource centers located around the state.