How we make decisions about benefits

We allow or deny benefits based on what claimants and their former employers tell us. Then we consider all state laws and rules.

Respond to requests for information quickly

It's very important for claimants and employers to give us information when we ask for it. When a claimant reports a job separation, we ask the employer for details. We also ask the employer to confirm the dates of employment. We review all verbal or written communication given to us that relates to the job separation.

We allow at least 2 business days for a response.

Information we may request and who we request it from

If needed, we will contact claimants and their former employers again. In some cases, we might need to contact others, such as a union.

If someone does not respond to our requests

If we don't hear back, we will base our decision on information we have, and on state laws and rules.

How we notify you of our decision

We send our decision to both the claimant and the former employer. If either disagrees with our decision, either can appeal. Learn more:

Related laws and rules

You can read more on the Washington State Legislature website: