How Do I Claim Unemployment Benefits with the Washington Unemployment Insurance Claims Center?

Introduction

Before filing for unemployment benefits, it’s strongly recommended that you review the Unemployed Worker’s Handbook, which provides detailed guidance on how to file a claim and receive benefits. The handbook also outlines your ongoing responsibilities to remain eligible for unemployment compensation. By reviewing the handbook, you’ll better understand whether you qualify for benefits and what steps to take if your claim is denied by the Washington Employment Insurance Claims Center. Are you ready to file your unemployment claim? Continue reading this guide for step-by-step instructions on how to apply for and receive your unemployment benefits.

Gather All Required Documents

You need to provide the Washington Unemployment Insurance Claims Center with your basic personal information, including your full name, Social Security Number, a valid government-issued ID, bank account information, citizenship status, and your birthday. To qualify, you also need to have 680 hours of your covered employment. Be sure to provide the center with your complete work history from the last 18 months. Please check this link for a list of all the required documents you need to submit for your claim.

Be sure to submit all required documents on time and review them before submitting to prevent delays and other issues with your claims.

Also, make sure to apply within two weeks of job separation. Otherwise, the Claims Center may ask for more information as to why you did not apply right after separating from your employer.

Apply Online

Once you have all the documents needed for your application, the next step is to apply online. To do this, just sign in to your account or create one. Then, follow the on-screen instructions on the website.

Note that you won't be able to use your mobile phone when filling out the form. A working computer is required to complete the form.

Call the Claims Center

For faster processing, we recommend filing your claim online. However, you may also contact the Claims Center directly by phone. The 1-800 number is available for both English- and Spanish-speaking applicants. If you have a speech or hearing disability, you may dial 711 to access relay services.

Keep Looking for Work

To qualify for unemployment benefits, you must be able and willing to accept work. All claimants must also actively look for a job to receive benefits. Use this job search log.

Submit Weekly Claims to Get Paid

How do you receive your unemployment benefits? To get paid, you must file a weekly claim for each week you wish to receive benefits. This is typically done the following week after you apply.

You can file your weekly claim online by logging in to your account and checking your Account Alerts. Click on the weekly claim filing alert and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Conclusion

Expect an email confirmation after filing your unemployment claim. The center may also contact you if additional documentation is needed for your claim. To check the claim status, log in to your online account. You may qualify for benefits if you worked at least 680 hours during your base year and lost your job through no fault of your own. You must also be legally authorized to work in the United States and remain able, available, and actively seeking new employment to continue receiving benefits. Still have questions about unemployment benefits in Washington? Contact Support for further assistance.