Washington

Washington Layoff Resources

If you have been laid off in Washington, start here for unemployment, health coverage, basic-needs assistance, workforce services, and help with possible workplace problems.

Eligibility varies by program, so use the official links below for current rules and applications.

Unemployment Benefits and Filing

Washington Unemployment Insurance may provide temporary income if you lost work through no fault of your own. File a weekly claim for every week you want benefits and report all work and earnings. Unless ESD tells you otherwise, complete three approved job-search activities each week and keep a record of them.

Layoff-Notice Protections

Washington’s state mass-layoff and business-closing law took effect in 2025 and is broader than federal WARN in some respects. Covered employers generally must provide 60 days’ written notice before covered business closings, mass layoffs, or certain major reductions in hours affecting 50 or more full-time workers. Washington strengthened the law again in 2026, including privacy protections and an exemption for Tribes. Definitions and exceptions matter, so use the current ESD guidance rather than relying only on federal WARN rules.

Health-Insurance Coverage

Washington operates its own health-insurance marketplace, Washington Healthplanfinder, which also handles Apple Health eligibility. Losing job-based coverage generally creates a special enrollment opportunity. Compare marketplace coverage, Apple Health, and COBRA before choosing.

Food, Cash, Childcare, Utility, and Local Assistance

Washington Connection is a main starting point for food, cash, medical, and other assistance. Working Connections Child Care and LIHEAP have additional program rules. For local food, housing, utility, and emergency help, use Washington 211.

Workforce and Reemployment Services

WorkSource Washington centers provide no-cost employment and training services, including résumé help, career guidance, veteran services, computer access, and information about training assistance.

Workplace Problems and Legal Help

Washington Labor & Industries handles certain unpaid-wage and worker-rights complaints. Employment-discrimination complaints under state law generally must be filed with the Washington State Human Rights Commission within six months; federal deadlines can differ.

Civil legal help

Last Reviewed: August 2026