Featured news
Posted on Apr. 07, 2026
County unemployment rates and employment data for January 2026 are now available on the Employment Security Department website. Visit the labor force page to view historic and current data on the unemployment rate.
Posted on Apr. 01, 2026
Washington’s economy increased by an estimated 2,800 jobs (seasonally adjusted) in January 2026, and the monthly unemployment rate increased slightly to 5.0% from 4.9% in December 2025.
Learn about Paid Family & Medical Leave
In Washington state, the Paid Family & Medical Leave (Paid Leave) program provides eligible workers with the opportunity to take paid time off for various family and personal medical reasons. This includes bonding with a new child, caring for a family member with a serious health condition, or spend time with a family member preparing for military service overseas. Read more about the paid leave program.
Check out the updated unemployed worker's handbook
This guide to applying for benefits is now available in many languages.