Resources and information for workers and families impacted by Job Loss.
Unemployment Benefits
- Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD) provides unemployment benefits for eligible workers impacted by layoffs.
- Apply or learn more: https://esd.wa.gov or call 800-318-6022.
- File as soon as possible after your last day of work to avoid delays in benefits.
Mortgage Assistance
- Contact Your Mortgage Servicer Immediately: If you are unable to make your mortgage payment or expect financial hardship, contact your mortgage servicer as soon as possible to ask about available hardship assistance, payment relief, or mortgage forbearance options.
- Washington Homeownership Resource Center: Visit www.homeownership-wa.org or call 877-894-4663 to talk with a local housing counselor.
Rental Assistance
- Notify Your Landlord: Notify your landlord or property management company in writing regarding your family or employment disruption to establish a record of your hardship.
- Washington 211: Connects renters to emergency rent assistance, eviction prevention programs, and local housing resources. Dial 2-1-1 or visit wa211.org.
Credit Card Debt
- Contact Your Credit Card Issuer: If you are struggling to make payments, ask about hardship assistance programs. Some credit cards may temporarily reduce interest rates, waive fees, or lower minimum payment requirements.
Banking and Credit Union Assistance
- Contact Your Financial Institution: Banks and credit unions may offer temporary relief programs for customers impacted by layoffs, including fee waivers or payment flexibility.
Student Loans
- Contact Your Student Loan Servicer: Ask about temporary relief options such as payment deferral or forbearance. Learn more about student loan assistance.
Health Insurance After Job Loss
- If you lose employer coverage, you may be eligible for COBRA continuation coverage.
- You can also explore coverage options through Washington Healthplanfinder: https://www.wahealthplanfinder.org
- Some individuals may qualify for subsidized health insurance depending on income.
Avoid Scams and Fraud
Scammers often target individuals and families impacted by layoffs. Watch for these common warning signs:
- Imposters Offering Help: Individuals may falsely claim to represent government agencies or assistance programs. Government employees will never charge fees to help you receive benefits or services.
- Up-Front Fees: Never pay money up front to secure a loan, expedite a claim, obtain a job, or receive charitable assistance.
- Fake Job Offers: Watch for unsolicited texts, emails, or social media messages offering jobs that require fees, sensitive personal information, or unfamiliar app downloads.
- Report a Scam: If you believe you have been the victim of a scam, contact the Washington State Attorney General's Office at https://atg.wa.gov or 360-753-6200.
Additional Resources and Assistance
- Washington 211: General Help
Connects individuals and families with local food banks, emergency shelter, utility assistance, and other community services. Dial 2-1-1 or visit wa211.org. - WorkSource Washington: Find Jobs
Resources to help individuals find jobs and employment services. Visit www.worksourcewa.com.