In the state of Washington, the unemployment rate hit a record low of 3.6% in March 2023. Despite this, job loss can still happen due to various reasons such as company downsizing, termination, or personal circumstances. If you find yourself unemployed in Washington, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits to help you financially while you search for a new job.
Applying for unemployment in Washington state is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed online, by phone, or by mail. To be eligible for benefits, you must meet specific requirements, such as having worked and earned a certain amount of wages in the state during a specific period, known as the base period. The base period is typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters. You must also be unemployed through no fault of your own, meaning you did not quit your job voluntarily or get fired for misconduct.