Welcome to the Washington State Employment Security Department 

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

March 2026
Unemployment rate
Seasonally adjusted
5.1%
0.0%
March 2026
Total unemployment
Seasonally adjusted
209,044
919
March 2026
Payroll employment
Seasonally adjusted
3,641,400
3,200

Featured news

Posted on Apr. 29, 2026
Washington’s economy lost an estimated 3,200 jobs (seasonally adjusted) in March 2026 while the unemployment rate remained unchanged at 5.1%.
Posted on Apr. 15, 2026
Washington’s economy added an estimated 700 jobs (seasonally adjusted) in February 2026, and the unemployment rate rose to 5.1%, marking the fourth consecutive monthly increase.
Image of a mountain

Check out the updated unemployed worker's handbook

This guide to applying for benefits is now available in many languages.

View the blog post