Steps to apply for benefits
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Gather the required information
Before applying, find out what information you need when you apply. Review the Handbook for Unemployed Workers (PDF, 2,884KB) for details.
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Apply online or by phone
If you don't have a phone or computer, you can use one for free at any WorkSource employment center. Use the WorkSource locator to find the center closest to 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
Call us at 800-318-6022 to apply by phone. Find claims center hours on the contact us page. If you have a hearing or speech disability, you can use Washington Relay Service 711. -
Get your benefits decision letter
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. Respond quickly if we ask you for more information.
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Look for work and submit weekly claims
To collect unemployment benefits, you need to be able and available to work, look for work, and submit a claim each week. You will tell us about your job search activities when filing your weekly claim. For more information, read:
Video about applying for benefits
Tips for completing your application
Apply within 2 weeks of losing your job
You can ask us to backdate your claim, which would make it start earlier than the date you apply. If you wait too long to apply, we'll need to find out why. We may ask more questions before deciding if you can receive benefits for the backdated weeks.
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, call the unemployment claims center at 800-318-6022 to apply.
| 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 customary 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 "just cause" reason. | Fired |
Double-check all information on your application
Make sure you enter the correct information. Once you submit your application, you cannot change it.
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.