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 Handbook for Unemployed Workers

    The Handbook for Unemployed Workers (PDF, 2,884KB) includes a lot of helpful information. Learn about your rights and responsibilities when you apply for and receive benefits.

  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.

  3. Change your application, if needed

    If you apply online and need to make changes to your application, you need to do that before you submit your application. After you submit your application, you can make changes only by calling the Unemployment Claims Center at 800-318-6022.

  4. Apply online or by phone within 2 weeks of separating from your job

    You can ask us to backdate your claim, which would make it start earlier than the date you apply. If you wait more than 2 weeks, we'll need to find out why. We may ask more questions before deciding if you can receive benefits for the backdated weeks.

    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 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. To finish the process, you are connected to a live agent. Find claims center hours on the contact us page. If you have a hearing or speech disability, you can use Washington Relay Service 711.

  5. 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.

  6. 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

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 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

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.

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