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Unemployment benefits
Affected by COVID-19
The federal CARES Act expands unemployment benefits to people affected by COVID-19. If you are not eligible for regular unemployment, learn more about Pandemic Unemployment Assistance here:
- Self-employed and independent contractors
- Sick or caring for a family member
- Lost work or part-time worker
IMPORTANT: The job search requirement is back. Begin job search activities the week of July 4 - July 10. Visit the Job search requirements page for more information.
What are unemployment benefits?
Unemployment benefits provide you with temporary income when you lose your job through no fault of your own. The money partly replaces your lost earnings and helps you pay expenses while looking for new work. The benefits, from taxes your former employer(s) paid, are not based on financial need. While you receive benefits, your job is to get back to work as quickly as possible.
How to apply for unemployment benefits
The best and fastest way to apply is online. You can apply by phone, but wait times are very long because of COVID-19. At this time, you cannot apply in person. The steps below will guide you through the process.
Get ready to apply
Before applying, download the unemployment application checklist to prepare.
Reasonable accommodation. Information on reasonable accommodation is available for unemployment-benefits customers with disabilities.
Step 1: Eligibility
If you're out of work, and not sure if you're eligible for unemployment benefits, please use the eligibility checker for information about your possible eligibility.
- If you were laid off as a result of COVID-19, you are likely eligible for regular unemployment benefits.
- If you are unsure of your eligibility after completing the checklist, apply anyway. Complete the application as best you can and we will follow up with you as soon as possible.
Step 2: Apply
We are experiencing extremely high call volumes. If possible, please apply online to save time and receive financial support fastest.
Before you start applying online, gather the required documents.
When applying, the system will time out after 15 minutes to protect your security. Apply 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We suggest you use a laptop or desktop computer—not a mobile device or tablet.
Need help? Check the eServices User Guide or technical support FAQs.
Step 3: After you apply
We will notify you if your application has been approved and let you know how much money you will receive and what to do next. You will also be notified if you are not approved.
Other important information
- Submit your weekly claims.
- Report honestly.
- Watch for and read any information we send you. If you chose to receive information via eServices, we will email you when there’s new information that requires your attention. This information may be time sensitive and affect your eligibility for benefits.
- Sign up for direct deposit or a debit card to receive your weekly benefits faster and more securely.
- Start your optional job search.
- Read the Unemployed Worker Handbook to learn about the requirements.
Run out of regular unemployment benefits? Visit the benefit extensions page to learn more about extension programs.
Step 4: Look for work
Usually, people receiving unemployment benefits are required to look for work and document their search. As a result of the COVID-19 crisis, the governor, with support from the Legislature, suspended the job search requirement at the start of the pandemic. The suspension has been extended ever since.
With the economy recovering, the job search requirement is back. This means you will be required to look for work and document at least three approved job search activities each week in order to remain eligible for unemployment benefits.
When do job search requirements go back into effect?
- You must begin your job search activities the week of July 4-July 10.
- If you completed the required job search activities, you can answer “yes” to the job search question on the weekly claim starting the week of July 11. In future weeks, we will ask that you report the details of your job search activities.
- Important: Keep a record of your job search activities in case we ask to see them. You can use our job search log to make it easier.
Now hiring: See ESD's available jobs page at careers.wa.gov, and filter for Job Category “Insurance.”
Get job-search assistance
WorkSource can help you improve your job-search skills, find your next job and plan your career path.
Step 5: Weekly claim
After you are approved for unemployment benefits, you must submit a weekly claim for every week you wish to receive benefits. A weekly claim covers the prior week. For unemployment purposes, a week is Sunday through Saturday. You can’t claim for a week until it’s over.
SUBMIT ONLINE
The fastest way to submit your weekly claims is online, 24 hours day, seven days a week.
RESTART YOUR CLAIM
If you were approved for unemployment benefits within the past 12 months, but stopped claiming for a week or more for any reason, don't submit a new application. You can restart your claim this week, then begin filing weekly claims next week, as normal.
Additional benefit information
Benefit extensions | How-to webinars | Videos library | Job search requirements | Overpayments | Benefit Year End | Benefit denials & appeals | Reporting fraud | Forms and publications | 1099-G Tax Form | Contact unemployment
