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Laid Off Workers

/ / Laid Off Workers

Facing a layoff, furlough, or job loss? We’re here to help!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Find fast answers to common questions about layoffs, unemployment benefits, and next steps.

Am I eligible for Unemployment Insurance benefits?

If you’ve lost your job through no fault of your own — such as a layoff, business closure, or reduction in hours — you may be eligible for Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits. To qualify, you must:

  • Have worked at least 680 hours in the past year in Washington State (or a combination of states). 
  • Be able and available to work full-time. 
  • Be actively looking for work and keeping a weekly job search log, this can include attending UI approved activities. 
  • File weekly claims for every week you wish to receive benefits. 

What are Unemployment Insurance benefits, and how do I apply?

Unemployment Insurance (UI) Benefits are temporary financial assistance funded by employers and are not based on financial need. Most claims last up to 26 weeks within a one-year period.

Apply as soon as you stop working at esd.wa.gov or by calling 1-800-318-6022 (Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm).

What materials do I need to apply for benefits?

Before applying for Unemployment Insurance (UI), gather the following: 

  • Social Security Number 
  • Mailing address and phone number 
  • Employer information for the past 18 months (name, address, dates worked, and reason for separation) 
  • Bank account information (for direct deposit) 
  • Alien Registration Number (if you’re not a U.S. citizen)  

For filing your weekly claim, you’ll need to create a Secure Access Washington (SAW) account. Once your claim is approved, you’ll receive a determination letter explaining your weekly benefit amount and next steps.

What is the difference between Layoff, Furlough, and Shared Work?

Layoff: You are permanently separated from employment. Your position has been eliminated, your employer closed, or there’s no work available. You can apply for Unemployment Insurance benefits and may qualify for WorkSource or Worker Retraining programs to help you find your next opportunity.

Furlough: This is a temporary break in work — your employer intends to bring you back after a certain period (though not guaranteed). You may still qualify for UI benefits during the furlough, depending on your hours and earnings.

Shared Work Program: This program allows employers to reduce employee hours instead of laying people off. Workers with reduced hours can receive partial unemployment benefits to offset lost wages. It helps both the business and the worker stay connected during a slowdown. For more information, visit esd.wa.gov/SharedWork.

Where can I get support?

WorkSource Pierce is your one-stop connection for career and training support available to everyone, all at no cost. You can: 

  • Meet one-on-one with an Employment Specialist 
  • Review your résumé with an expert
  • Attend workshops, job fairs, and hiring events 
  • Explore training programs and certifications  

WorkSource partners include state agencies, community colleges, and workforce organizations that specialize in helping workers impacted by layoffs to return to work quickly. To connect with services, visit the WorkSource Pierce One-Stop in Tacoma; no appointment is necessary.

Who is eligible for WorkSource services?

Anyone looking for work or exploring new career opportunities can use WorkSource services, but special programs exist for those affected by layoffs.

To learn more about weekly events at the WorkSource Pierce office, sign up for WorkSource Weekly here.

To learn more about all the free services and programs available at WorkSource Pierce, please attend the WorkSource General Orientation (registration is required), held both in-person and virtually every Tuesday from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM at the WorkSource Pierce One-Stop in Tacoma.

You may qualify for additional one-on-one support if you:

  • Lost your job through no fault of your own 
  • Are eligible for unemployment benefits 
  • Are 18 or older and legally able to work in the U.S. 
  • Registered with the Selective Service (Males only) 

If eligible, you can receive help with: 

  • Career planning and job search 
  • Funding for training or education
  • Supportive services while in training 

For personalized help based on your situation, meet with an Employment Specialist at the WorkSource Pierce One-Stop Center.

WorkSource Services for Workers Impacted by Layoffs

WorkSource Pierce is your one-stop connection for career and training support available at no cost. You can:

Job Seekers 1

Specialized Employment Services

Get specialized help from a career advisor or connect to training programs.

Man at Computer Session

Layoff Assistance Sessions

Attend a free online Layoff Assistance Session to learn about benefits and resources available to you.

WorkSource Pierce General Orientation 2

WorkSource General Orientation

Learn about all the free resources WorkSource has to offer.

A black woman sits at her kitchen table examining her finances and household budget

Financial Coaching

Receive expert, personalized guidance on your financial health.

Laid Off Workers 4

UI Job Search Activities

If you need to report job search activities, these events qualify and can help you stay eligible for benefits.

Hiring Events & Job Fairs in Pierce County 3

Hiring Events & Job Fairs

Explore our calendar of scheduled hiring events and job fairs in Pierce County.

To learn more about weekly events at the WorkSource Pierce office, sign up for WorkSource Weekly here or view our full event calendar.

You may also be interested in these resources for Job Seekers:

Young Adults
Veterans & Military Families
Justice-Impacted Individuals

Get help from an Employment Specialist

Visit the WorkSource One-Stop Center to get personalized advice about your layoff from an Employment Specialist.

Visit the WorkSource One-Stop Center

Additional Resources

Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway

November 15, 18, 20: The Tacoma Police Department and Tacoma Ministerial Alliance are leading an effort to provide free turkeys to families during Thanksgiving. Download the flyer to find pick-up locations and more information.

Download Flyer

Employment Resource Fair

November 12: A free, public event connecting job seekers directly with employers ready to hire. It will also include on-site partners offering help with healthcare, housing, childcare, and basic needs.

About this Event
Download Flyer

Housing & Utility Assistance

Employment, Unemployment, & Furlough Support

Student Loan & Education Debt Relief

Unemployment Job Search Requirement Calendar

Looking for activities that count toward your job search requirement? Use this calendar to find approved workshops, hiring events, and training opportunities.

For more details on job search requirements, visit the Employment Security Department website.

This calendar highlights events that count toward Unemployment Insurance job search requirements. Explore even more workshops and resources by visiting our full event calendar.