Eligibility for military members

You may be eligible for unemployment benefits if you were discharged from active military duty within the past 18 months and:

• Are physically in Washington when you apply for benefits.
• Received an honorable, entry-level, uncharacterized or general discharge.
• Received a release or "discharge from active duty" form DD-214, member copy 2 through 8.
• Are fully discharged from active duty, including leave time.
• Are able to work, available for work, and looking for work.

You also need to have completed your first, full term of active duty or have been discharged for one of the following:

• Disability.
• Hardship.
• Reduction in force.
• Another reason that the U.S. Department of Labor accepts.

Additional requirements for National Guard members

If you are a National Guard member or reservist, you must also have served at least 180 days of continuous active duty during your base year.

If you recently moved to Washington

Military members do not need to have worked in Washington during the last 18 months to qualify for unemployment benefits.

Applying for benefits

Learn how to apply for unemployment benefits after a military discharge.

Get help finding a job

As a veteran, you have priority access to free services to search or prepare for jobs at throughout Washington. Use the WorkSource locator to find an office near you.

Help for dislocated workers

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) can pay for training or education to help you get a high-demand job. It can also provide supportive services to help you keep that job.

You may qualify for the WIOA dislocated worker program for 1 of the reasons below:

• You are being released from military service for a reason other than retirement or dishonorable discharge.
• You received a notice of military separation.

Visit a local WorkSource center to find out about this program.