Washington Unemployment Contact Information

Most Washington unemployment insurance issues can be handled through the state’s SecureAccess Washington eServices portal, but if you ever have a question that requires the help of a live representative, you can call the UI claims center for help.

Washington Unemployment Phone Numbers

Washington UI benefit phone representatives

If you need assistance with your unemployment benefits in Washington, you can contact the Employment Services Department’s UI claims center for help. UI customer service representatives are available to assist you Monday to Friday, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. PST.

UI Claims Center

The Washington UI Claims Center provides a valuable resource for claimants seeking assistance with their unemployment benefits. When you call 1-800-318-6022, you will be connected with a trained customer service representative that can address a variety of concerns and inquiries related to UI claims.

Whether it’s clarifying eligibility requirements, providing guidance on filing weekly claims, or resolving issues with benefit payments, these representatives are equipped to help you navigate the Washington state unemployment process and ensure a smooth experience.

Automated Virtual Assistant

The Washington unemployment virtual assistant hotline is available at 888-429-0357 and provides information and assistance regarding unemployment benefits. The hotline employs advanced virtual assistant technology to address a wide range of inquiries and concerns. It can answer questions related to eligibility criteria, application processes, claim status, payment issues, and other common queries associated with unemployment benefits in Washington State. This convenient and accessible service aims to provide prompt and accurate responses, helping individuals navigate the unemployment system more efficiently.

It’s important to note that the automated virtual system is only available to answer basic questions regarding existing claims and program processes—it cannot take your information to file an initial application or weekly claim. If you need to file an application or weekly claim, you will need to call the UI claims center.

OAH Call Center: Benefit Denials and Appeals

The Washington Office of Administrative Hearings plays a crucial role in the unemployment process by handling appeals and resolving disputes related to unemployment claims. Their call center helps claimants who wish to contest a decision made by the Employment Security Department regarding their unemployment insurance benefits.

Trained representatives are available at 1-800-366-0955, and can provide guidance on the appeals process, explain the necessary steps to file an appeal, and address specific inquiries or concerns related to the appeals process.

UI Collection Unit

Washington’s UI Collection Unit is responsible for recovering overpayments made to claimants who received more unemployment compensation than they were entitled to. The call center associated with the UI Collection Unit provides assistance to those who owe an overpayment to the Department of Employment Security. When you call 1-866-697-4831, a live representative can help you set up repayment plans, discuss options for resolving the debt, provide information on available resources, and address any questions or concerns related to the overpayment.

Office of Special Investigations: Unemployment Fraud

Washington’s Office of Special Investigations operates an unemployment fraud hotline to combat fraudulent activities related to UI benefits. The hotline is designed to receive reports and gather information about suspected fraud, ensuring that appropriate actions are taken to investigate and prevent fraudulent activities.

Individuals can contact the hotline at 1-800-246-9763 to report cases of identity theft, fraudulent claims, or any suspicious activity related to unemployment benefits.

The hotline staff can help you report fraud, offer information on the investigation process, and assist individuals in protecting their personal information from further misuse.

What information will I need when I call?

When you call the Washington State UI claim center, they may ask you for personal information to verify your identity or locate your application for benefits. This information might include:

• Your name
• Social Security number
• Phone number
• Address

If you’re applying for unemployment benefits for the first time or filing a weekly claim, you will also need to provide information about your previous employer and job search. This might include:

• Employer contact information (name, address, phone number).
• Date you stopped working
• Work search activities
• Information about your wages and income

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WorkSource Washington Job Center Locations

After applying for UI benefits in Washington, you are required to sign up as a job seeker with your local WorkSource Washington office. The department will typically register you for these services automatically, but if you live outside the state of Washington, you must register with your local American Job Center within seven days of filing for benefits.

WorkSearch Washington offers a range of valuable services to job seekers in the state. Through their online platform, individuals can search for job opportunities, create and upload resumes, and track their job application progress. The platform also provides access to career exploration tools, training resources, and job market information to help users make informed decisions about their career paths.

Please note, WorkSource staff cannot access your unemployment claim information.

WorkSearch Washington offers personalized assistance through their local offices, where unemployed workers can receive guidance on resume building, interview preparation, and other job search strategies.

WorkSource Washington Office Services

• Career counseling
• Job fairs and hiring events
• Job placement services
• Job search assistance
• Networking opportunities
• Resource centers
• Skills assessment and training
• Workshops and training events

Career counseling

WorkSource Washington provides career counseling services to assist job seekers in navigating their career paths. Through one-on-one counseling sessions, trained professionals help you explore your interests, skills, and goals, providing guidance and resources to make informed career decisions.

Job fairs and hiring events

Job seekers can also attend job fairs and hiring events to connect with employment opportunities. These events provide a platform for job seekers to meet directly with hiring managers, submit resumes, and potentially secure job interviews. Job fairs and hiring events organized by WorkSource Washington offer valuable networking opportunities and increase job seekers’ visibility in the local job market.

Job placement services

Job placement services are available to help job seekers find suitable employment opportunities. Through WorkSource Washington’s extensive network and job databases, you can connect with local employers and job openings. WorkSource Washington’s job placement services aim to match people with positions that align with their skills, experience, and career goals, ultimately supporting them in securing employment.

Job search assistance

WorkSource Washington provides job search assistance to support individuals in their quest for employment. They offer guidance on various aspects of the job search process, including resume writing, cover letter preparation, and interview skills. Job seekers can receive personalized assistance to enhance their job search strategies, increase their chances of success, and ultimately secure employment.

Networking opportunities

Networking opportunities help job seekers expand their professional connections. WorkSource Washington organizes networking events where you can interact with industry professionals, employers, and fellow job seekers. These networking events provide a platform for you to showcase your skills, make valuable contacts, and access hidden job markets, increasing your chances of finding suitable employment.

Resource centers

WorkSource Washington resource centers are equipped with essential amenities to support unemployed workers. These centers offer access to computers, internet services, printers, and other resources necessary for conducting job search activities, such as online applications and research. You can utilize these resource centers to enhance your job search efforts and efficiently navigate the digital landscape of the job market.

Skills assessment and training

Skills assessment tools help evaluate job seekers’ abilities and match them with appropriate training programs. Through these services, you can identify your strengths and areas for improvement, enabling you to develop the necessary skills and qualifications for your desired career path.

Workshops and training events

WorkSource Washington organizes workshops, seminars, and training events to support job seekers in their professional development. These events cover a range of topics, such as job search strategies, interview techniques, resume writing, and career advancement. By participating in these workshops and training events, you can gain valuable knowledge, skills, and insights to improve your job prospects and increase your competitiveness in the job market.