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

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The Employment Security Department, along with state and local partners, will host another layoff assistance webinar for state of Washington employees and contractors. The webinar is scheduled from 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 15.
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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. 
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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.

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