How to apply for unemployment benefits

Learn how to submit your application for unemployment benefits and what requirements you need to follow.

Steps to apply for benefits

  1. Read the Unemployed Worker's Handbook

    The Unemployed Worker's Handbook (PDF, 2.07MB) includes a lot of helpful information. Learn about your rights and responsibilities when you apply for and receive benefits. Visit the Handbook page to see translations.

  2. Gather the required information

    Before applying, find out what information you need when you apply. Giving us accurate information is important! It helps to avoid processing delays. Incorrect information could also lead to overpayments that you have to pay back. Learn more about overpayments.

  3. Apply within 2 weeks of separating from your job

    If you wait longer than 2 weeks to apply, we may ask you for more information. If you don't have a phone or computer, you can use one for free at any WorkSource employment center near you. 

    Apply online

    Apply for unemployment benefits online in eServices to save time. You can apply online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Read about eServices and how to create an account. Use a laptop or desktop computer. The online form is not designed for mobile devices.

    Save your information at any time during the process. If you stop working on the application for 15 minutes, the system will time out and not keep unsaved information. You will get a confirmation number after you choose the "Submit" button. You will also receive verification by email that we received your application, if you gave us permission to email you.

    Apply by phone

    The Claims Center phone number is 800-318-6022. Find claims center hours on the contact us page. If you have a hearing or speech disability, you can use Washington Relay Service 711.

  4. Stay in touch in case we need more information 

    Make sure your contact information is up to date. Respond quickly if we ask you for more information. We'll notify you when we receive your application. We also will tell you how much money you might receive and what to do next. Learn more about your benefits decision letter.

  5. Look for work

    Each week you claim benefits you need to be able and available to work. You need to complete and track job search requirements, unless we tell you otherwise. We recommend using our job search log (PDF, 286KB). We may ask to see the log anytime you are getting benefits. 

  6. Submit weekly claims

    Applying is only the first step. To get paid, you need to file a claim each week you want benefits. Submit weekly claims even if you are waiting to hear if you are eligible. Learn more about how to file your weekly claims.

This 4-minute video explains when to apply for benefits or restart a claim to get paid unemployment benefits.

If we have questions about your application

If we have any questions about your application, we may set an "issue" on the claim. This is our way of saying we need more information before deciding if you can get benefits. Learn more about how we address issues through the adjudication process.

Tips for completing your application

Enter the exact name from your Social Security card

For example, if your Social Security card shows Robert T Smith, use that name on your application. Don't use Robert Smith or Bob Smith.

If you got married or changed your legal name but haven't updated it with the Social Security Administration, use the name on your card.

Enter the legal name for your employer

We need the legal registered name of your employer. You can usually find this on your pay stub or W-2. The name you're familiar with might be different than the legal name.

Choose the right reason for your job separation

When applying, choose a reason that best describes why you are no longer employed. We may ask you for more details. If your situation does not match these descriptions, contact the unemployment claims center.

This 4-minute video reviews how to correctly report why you are not working.

Situation Choose
I told my employer, "I quit." Quit
My employer has no work available, my job was eliminated or the business closed. Laid off due to lack of work
I'm unemployed due to a lockout or strike (not an argument between me and my employer). Strike or lockout
I (or my employer) requested a leave of absence. I'm guaranteed work at the end of my leave of absence. Leave of absence
My hours were reduced to less than my usual full-time hours with my regular employer. I will have wages to report each week. Currently working part-time
I was fired because of performance, behavior or another good cause reason. Fired

Be careful of scams

Learn how to identify, avoid and report scams and fraud.

Accommodations for people with disabilities

If you have a disability and need help applying for benefits, read our information on reasonable accommodation services.

Get help finding a job

WorkSource can help you improve your job search skills, find your next job, and plan your career path.

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