Movement on new federal stimulus package has paused
A new stimulus package with changes and extensions for unemployment benefits passed Congress on Dec. 21. However, it has not yet been signed into law.
Sat. Dec. 26 is the latest it can be signed into law without affecting two benefit programs.
If the bill doesn’t become law on or before Saturday Dec. 26, Employment Security Department won’t be able to issue benefits for two federal programs the claim week ending Jan. 2:
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA)
Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC)
Once the bill is signed, we'll send another update with more info about availability of benefits.
If you’re receiving PUA or PEUC benefits, keep filing your weekly claims.
The Employment Security Department continues preparing to implement these changes as quickly and smoothly as possible once they become law. We’re also tracking developments closely and sharing updates on our website and social media as they become available.
Next steps
Continue filing weekly claims - even if you've exhausted your claim.
Watch for updates on esd.wa.gov/covid and messages in eServices.
Avoid calling the unemployment claims center with questions - call volume remains high
If you absolutely must call the claims center about another issue, we encourage calling in the afternoon to avoid early hours when our call volume is highest.
When we have specific information about next steps for our customers, we’ll be communicating directly via email and eServices.