Welcome to the Washington State Employment Security Department 

Supporting workers when they need it the most, and helping employers build their workforce

May 2025
Unemployment rate
Seasonally adjusted
4.5%
0.1%
May 2025
Total unemployment
Seasonally adjusted
181,214
2,261
May 2025
Payroll employment
Seasonally adjusted
4,042,228
9,838

Latest news

Posted on
County unemployment rates and employment data for May 2025 are now available on the Employment Security Department website. Visit the labor force page to view historic and current data on the unemployment rate. 
Posted on
Washington’s economy increased by an estimated 400 jobs (seasonally adjusted) in May 2025, and the monthly unemployment rate increased slightly to 4.5%.
decorative

Unemployment benefits for part-time workers and people with reduced hours

If your hours have been cut or you are working part time, you may qualify for unemployment benefits in Washington. These benefits can help cover your lost income, even if you are not fully unemployed.

View the blog post