Webinar for federal workers to learn about Washington benefits and reemployment resources set for May 29

  • Benefit programs
  • Job seekers

Released on

Name
Chris Barron, Communications Director
Email
media@esd.wa.gov

OLYMPIA – The Employment Security Department, along with state and local partners, continues its webinar series for federal workers who work and live in Washington state. The next webinar is Thursday, May 29, from 10 a.m. to noon. See registration details below.

More than 120 participants from 13 different federal agencies attended webinars in March and April. Nearly 50 are already registered for the May 29 briefing. There is no limit to the number of participants who can register. Registration is free and is open until the event starts. 

The webinars, part of the state’s rapid response efforts for large layoffs, are intended to help federal workers who were laid off, facing a furlough or expecting a workforce reduction. The information will help affected workers navigate available unemployment benefits and reemployment resources.

Through May 21, more than 1,300 federal employees have filed for unemployment benefits in 2025 compared to 792 at this time last year – a 64% increase. February saw the largest number of new unemployment claims from federal employees with 611. March saw a decrease to 245 in new federal claims. April ended with 135 new federal claims.

Webinar topics include:
•    Unemployment benefits, how to file and any assistance needs.
•    What to do about health care benefits.
•    Expanding your job skills through training and educational programs.
•    Career guidance, job search assistance, and other resources at no cost.

The webinars are a collaboration of state and local agencies and programs that provide support to those who have lost their jobs or facing the potential of workforce reductions. Partners include Employment Security, WorkSource, Local Workforce Development Boards, Washington Health Plan Finder, Washington State Community & Technical Colleges and the Washington State Labor Council.

Register for webinar Thursday, May 29, 2025, 10 a.m. to noon 

This webinar receives support and funding from a U.S. Department of Labor grant. Read more on the USDOL grants page.