Washington Unemployment Guide
Updated
Where to Apply for Unemployment Benefits
Unemployment Checklist
What information and documents you need.
- Your Social Security Number, birth date and contact information.
- Information about your last employer including company name, supervisor’s name, address (mailing and physical location) and phone number.
- The last date worked and the reason you are no longer working.
- The names and mailing addresses of all employers you have worked for in the past 18 months, including part-time and temporary jobs, and dates of employment.
- Your bank account and routing number, if you want to sign up for direct deposit.
- DD-214 member copy, 2 through 8 (ex-military only).
- Notice To Federal Employees About Unemployment Insurance, Standard Form 8 (former federal employees only).
- Employment authorization number if you are not a U.S. citizen.
Washington Benefits Calculator
Estimate how much money you may be able to receive.
How much will I receive as part of my benefits?
The amount of benefits you receive depends on your earnings in your reported base year. In Washington, the maximum weekly benefit amount is $790 and the minimum is $188. You can calculate your estimated benefits here.
Tips
How do I apply for benefits?
You can apply for benefits anytime online. If you do not have access to a computer, smartphone or tablet, you can also apply by phone. The claims center number at 800-318-6022 will be open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.–4 p.m. (except holidays) as follows:
Monday: New applications for those with Social Security numbers ending in 0-3. Open only for questions about weekly claims and other general questions.
Tuesday: New applications for those with Social Security numbers ending in 0-6. Open for questions about weekly claims and other general questions.
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: Everyone (Social Security numbers ending in 0-9) can submit new applications. Open for questions about weekly claims and other general questions.
What happens after I apply?
If you provided an email address, you will receive verification via email that you application has been received. Be sure to record your confirmation number before submitting your application in case you have issues with your claim. Keep checking your email and mail for more information, and you will receive an Unemployment Claim Determination letter through the mail. This letter includes the wages reported by your base year employer(s) and, if you qualify for benefits, the weekly benefit amount you will receive.
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