How to apply for unemployment benefits
If you’ve recently lost your job, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
Losing work can be stressful and confusing, but there are steps you can take right now to stabilize your income and start planning your next move.
In Washington, unemployment benefits are managed by the Employment Security Department (ESD)—not by WorkSource. While we don’t process claims, our team can connect you with the information and resources you need to get started.
Unemployment benefits provide temporary income for people who’ve lost their jobs through no fault of their own. The amount you receive depends on your past wages, and benefits are paid weekly for a set period of time.
You may be eligible if you:
- Lost your job or were laid off
- Had your hours reduced
- Were temporarily separated from work (“on standby”)
- Meet minimum work and wage requirements
You can learn more about eligibility, benefit amounts, and claim timelines directly on ESD’s website: Learn about unemployment eligibility at esd.wa.gov
Before you can apply for unemployment, you’ll need a SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account.
SAW is a secure login system that lets you access many Washington State services—including unemployment benefits, paid family and medical leave, and your WorkSourceWA.com account.
To create a SAW account:
- Go to secureaccess.wa.gov
- Select “Create an account”
- Enter your information, choose a username and password, and activate your account through the confirmation email
- Once your SAW account is active, you can start your unemployment application
If you need help with your SAW account, call the SAW Help Desk at (855) 682-0785.
(If they are experiencing high call volumes, try calling early or during off-peak hours.)
The fastest and easiest way to apply for benefits is online through ESD’s website:
Apply for unemployment benefits at esd.wa.gov
You can also apply by phone at (800) 318-6022, though wait times may be long. There are no in-person unemployment offices in Washington State.
To make the application process smoother:
- Have your work history, recent pay information, and employer details ready
- Use a computer instead of a phone if you can—it’s easier and faster
Once you’re approved, benefits are paid retroactively to the date you became eligible
After applying, you’ll need to submit weekly claims to keep receiving payments. You can file weekly claims or restart your claim anytime through ESD’s eServices portal. Even if your application is still being processed, you should file your weekly claims—this helps you get paid faster once your claim is approved.
Once your unemployment claim is underway, WorkSource can help you plan what’s next.
We offer personalized support to help you:
- Update your resume and prepare for interviews
- Explore in-demand industries and training programs
- Connect with employers hiring in your region
- Find financial and community resources while you search for work
Contact your local WorkSource center or visit WorkSourceWA.com to connect with a career coach and discover free workshops and events. Find your local WorkSource office.
Additional resources
What's next after I apply?
Once you apply, expect follow-up from Employment Security Department (ESD) with your benefits decision letter. Then, you will need to complete 3 job search activities each week to submit your weekly claim.