Employment Security Department

Unemployment benefits partially replace your regular earnings and help you meet expenses while you look for another job. It is not based on financial need.

If you are affected by COVID-19, Employment Security has programs that may be able to help. We adopted a series of emergency rules to relieve the burden of temporary layoffs, isolation and quarantine for workers and businesses.

The Q&A below provides answers to many of the frequently asked questions we are receiving about qualifying for unemployment benefits. And, this easy-to-read comparison guide lists some of the most common COVID-19 scenarios that may occur and the benefits that may apply.

Please know that the Employment Security Department and the entire state is mobilized and ready to help you through this difficult time.

Apply for benefits and learn more HERE

Seattle Relief Fund (10/26/2021)

The Seattle Relief Fund is $16,000,000 of funding for direct cash assistance to Seattle’s most vulnerable low-income residents and their households who have been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis.

Award Amounts

• $1,000 - $3,000 per household, dependent on household size.

Timeline

• Application open period 3 weeks, from Monday, October 25, 2021 to Monday, November 15, 2021 at 11:59 pm.
• Application review period 2 weeks, from November 16, 2021 to November 29, 2021
• Award decisions (approved or denied) November 29, 2021 to December 6, 2021
• Payment disbursement After December 9, 2021

Eligibility

You are not eligible for this Fund if you've received payment from the Seattle COVID-19 Disaster Relief Fund for Immigrants in September or October of 2021.

More Information & Apply.

Navigating State Unemployment in a Pandemic

Standby, Partial Work, and Shared Work

Are you and your colleagues facing challenges filing for unemployment following Coronavirus-related layoffs? Watch this webinar for guidance from Washington State's Employment Security Department (ESD) about how to navigate these benefits, especially if your workforce includes part-time workers who are getting automatic denials as ESD works to update their system to reflect new emergency rules.

**Webinar begins at 26 minute mark**

Seattle Hospitality Emergency Fund

"...a fund that can be accessed by workers whose hours have been curtailed because of this crisis and who are not being otherwise compensated."

Unemployment Law Project: COVID-19 & Unemployment Benefits

The Unemployment Law Project is a legal aid organization that offers advice and free/low-cost legal representation to people whose unemployment benefits claims have been denied or challenged by the employer. They also offer help to workers who need to file, but do not have access to a computer. More information is available at: unemploymentlawproject.org/covid-19.

WorkSource Critical Job Opportunities

"The outbreak of COVID-19 in our region has caused widespread social and economic disruption, including layoffs and changes to the business landscape. In the midst of this, critical workforce needs have emerged in response to societal changes, including hiring increases for grocery stores, cleaning companies, healthcare, social services, and others." WorkSource has highlighted opportunities here for people looking for immediate work.

Seattle Office of Economic Development (OED)

OED has updated their pages to include COVID-19 information for both businesses and workers: COVID-19 Business and Worker Resources.

Seattle Office of Labor Standards (OLS)

OLS has compiled a comprehensive list of resources and FAQs for both workers and employers affected by COVID-19: seattle.gov/laborstandards.

Seattle's PSST ordinance requires employers operating in Seattle to provide all employees with paid leave to care for themselves or a family member with a physical or mental health condition, medical appointment, or a critical safety issue.

Employees can use PSST as follows:

• To care for a personal or family member's illness, injury or health condition, including preventative appointments.
• To care for a personal or family or household member's for a reason related to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking.
• To care for a personal absence when a workplace, or child's school/place of care, has been closed by order of a public official for health reasons.
• Family member is defined as child of any age, spouse including registered domestic partners, parent and parent-in-law, sibling, grandparent, and grandchild.

Paid Sick & Safe Time Overview from the Office of Labor Standards

Paid Sick and Safe Time and COVID-19 - Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

Find out more about PSST and the Office of Labor Standards HERE

Washington Healthplan Finder

In response to the potential growth of Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases, a special enrollment period is now available through April 8, 2020 to qualified individuals who are uninsured. Apple Health enrollment is year-round.  To see if you qualify for special enrollment or Apple Health, call customer support between 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Monday - Friday at 1-855-923-4633

See more info and sign up for health insurance HERE

How to Get Help

If you need food assistance and live in King County, visit crisisconnections.org or call 211.

For residents outside of King County, visit wa211.org or call 211.

For additional food assistance information, visit Washington State’s Coronavirus Response food assistance page.

Map of Food Banks, Meals, and Student-To-Go-Meals.

Washington Connection

Washington Connection offers a fast and easy way for families and individuals to apply for a variety of services such as Food, Cash, Child Care, Long-Term Care, and Medicare Savings Programs. Individuals that are age 65 or older, blind or disabled may also apply for medical assistance. Click “See If I Qualify” to get started. Watch Video

Free Meals For Students

During COVID-19 related school closures, all students can access free meals.

• These are grab-and-go meals; in the spirit of social distancing, students cannot stay at the school.
• Meals are for kids and teens only–United Way is working to coordinate additional resources for families, but for now meals are only for youth.
• Check HERE for the site nearest you.

More information here on all food support option here .

Safeway Emergency Food Vouchers for Seattle Families

On March 20, the City of Seattle will start distributing a series of $20 vouchers to approximately 6,250 families who may be experiencing financial hardship during the coronavirus outbreak. Families will receive two mailers of 20 vouchers (a total of $400 a month) over the next two months. The City is exploring additional investments from private businesses and hopes to expand this program to up to 100,000 Seattle residents. Vouchers may be used to purchase items from any Washington Safeway store, with the exception of alcohol, tobacco, fuel, or lottery tickets. Customers must spend at least $20 to apply the $20 coupon. For more information, check out this Emergency Food Vouchers Frequently Asked Questions page.

Immanuel Community Services

• Immanuel Community Services operates a Food Bank that serves approximately 325-400 clients (120-150 families) per month. We are open each Monday, from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm.
• The ICS Hygiene Center provides the opportunity for homeless men and women to wash clothes, take a shower and spend a few hours in a warm, safe and dry environment. The Center is open weekdays from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, creating a welcoming environment to anyone who walks through our doors. Each weekday morning our industrial washer, dryer, and hot water heater are put to use, washing clothes and offering showers for 20 to 40 people. Once a week, we offer the option to wash larger items, including blankets and sleeping bags. Our Hygiene guests are given toiletries, such as razors, shampoo, deodorant, toothbrushes and soap. These essential services allow homeless individuals to participate in work, job search and community activities with dignity.
• Due to the COVID-19 outbreak the Community Lunch has been temporarily cancelled. Check the ICS website for updates and information

1215 Thomas St.
Seattle, WA, 98109
(206) 622-1930

Find out more about their programs and offerings HERE

Queen Anne Food Bank

We serve our neighbors and friends high protein sandwiches, yogurt, fruit, bread, pastries, and world renowned hot soups, M-F, 8:30am-11: 30 am, 52 weeks a year.  If you're hungry stop on by.

Additionally, on Thursday afternoon from 2 pm to 4 pm, we open up our space to allow people to come in and shop for free. In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, "shopping" has been converted into door side grocery pick ups.

232 Warren Ave. N.
Seattle, WA, 98109
(206) 216-4102

Find out more HERE

Residential Evictions in Seattle have been Halted During this Outbreak

Residential evictions for non-payment of rent have ben temporarily halted. This is effective immediately and will last for 30 days or until Seattle's coronavirus emergency ends, pending the council's approval. For more information, you can access this FAQ.

Seattle Restaurant Workers Coronavirus Rent Fund

Currently, the Seattle Restaurant Workers Coronavirus Rent Fund is accepting donations to support restaurant workers in Seattle who have been impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. The hospitality industry nonprofit Big Table will be disbursing funds soon.

To contact Big Table to find out about eligibility reach out to their Seattle Team at: (206) 734-9279 seattleinfo@big-table.com

Utilities will not be Shut Off During this Outbreak

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) , Seattle City Light (SCL), and Puget Sound Energy (PSE) will keep utility services on during the COVID-19 Civil Emergency in Seattle. SPU and SCL customers who have been financially impacted by COVID-19, regardless of background or immigration status, can request a deferred payment plan that includes reversed late fees. SPU and SCL recommends that customers should as soon as possible call (206) 684-3000 or send an email anytime at seattle.gov/utilities/about-us/email-question. PSE is waiving late fees for customers who can find more information at PSE's COVID-19 Response page.

City of Seattle Utility Discount Program (UDP)

The Utility Discount Program (UDP) lowers Seattle City Light bills by 60 percent and Seattle Public Utility bills by 50 percent. To learn more about enrollment in UDP, call (206) 684-0268 or go to: seattle.gov/humanservices/services-and-programs/affordability-and-livability/utility-discount-program.

Resource Page for Renters Facing Evictions & Other Tenant Issues

Renting in Seattle - Information for renters, landlords or property mangers, evictions and more.

Housing Security for Those in Need During COVID-19 Crisis

United Way, Home Base Program:

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically increased and shifted housing needs in Seattle and King County. In order to meet those needs, we are adapting the Home Base program to provide rental assistance to people in need.

Every day, we’re learning of new and different needs in the community because of COVID-19. As we adapt to meet those needs, the Home Base program is evolving.

United Way and our partners are working to get on an online application live later this week. If you are seeking rental assistance, please enter your email here.  We’ll send you an email as soon it is live.

Washington Connection

Offering a fast and easy way for families and individuals to apply for a variety of services such as Food, Cash, Child Care, Long-Term Care, and Medicare Savings Programs. Individuals that are age 65 or older, blind or disabled may also apply for medical assistance.

See if you qualify and learn more about services available HERE

City of Seattle Childcare for First Responders and Essential Workers

Mayor Jenny A. Durkan issued an Emergency Order on March 27, 2020 to allow the City of Seattle to fund emergency childcare for essential workers including health care professionals, first responders, and grocery store workers. Eligible families can apply for child care by visiting this Emergency Child Care page.

Education Companies offering Free Subscriptions due to School Closures

This is put together by different individuals and not a specific organization. Be sure to read the fine print carefully. This resource lists education companies offering free subscriptions due to school closures.

Alliance for Education Right Now Needs Fund

The Right Now Needs Fund provides immediate support to address the unmet basic needs of any Seattle Public School student and their family. The fund can be used to address basic needs including food, shelter, clothing, and medical care. All 102 SPS schools have a Right Now Needs Fund, and this fund is absolutely still available during this pandemic. For more information on the fund, visit: alliance4ed.org/connect-with-us/right-now-needs-fund.

Seattle Public Schools Child Care

Seattle Public Schools (SPS) is offering space for child care providers in 12 SPS buildings while schools are closed. Please check this SPS page for details. 

Seattle Public Schools Home Learning Resources

Seattle Public Schools (SPS) has compiled this list of extension learning activities. SPS developed this list considering a variety of students, including students with Individualized Education Programs and students who do not have access to technology or other resources. Many of these resources can help students to stay engaged academically while at home.

ORCA LIFT

People with household income of less than double the federal poverty level (as established by US Health and Human Services Department) qualify for ORCA LIFT.

To get an ORCA LIFT card, you must be between 19 and 64 years of age. Children six through 18 are eligible for an ORCA youth card, which may be obtained free of charge by LIFT cardholders, and those 65 and older are eligible for a Regional Reduced Fare Permit (RRFP) card. People with disabilities may qualify for the RRFP card.

Apple COVID-19 Screening Tool.

This tool can help you understand what to do next about COVID-19.

Let’s all look out for each other by knowing our status, trying not to infect others, and reserving care for those in need.

SLU Chamber Small Business & Nonprofit Relief Fund

All In Seattle

Education Equity Fund

Frontline Foods - The COVID Clinician Meal Support Program

Keep Workers Safe & Healthy Fund

Seattle Foundation Fund

Seattle Hospitality Emergency Fund

The Plate Fund

United Way's Home Base Program

UW Medicine Emergency Response Fund

We Got This Seattle

Woodland Park Zoo Relief Fund

Donate Good/Services to the following nonprofits:

• Compass Housing Alliance
• Emerald City Music
• FareStart - Current Needs
• Immanuel Community Services - email Shawna MacMahon
• Mary's Place
• New Horizons
• Queen Anne Helpline
• SIFF Cinema
• The Center for Wooden Boats
• WestSide Baby
• Woodland Park Zoo
• YouthCare

WA Food Fund

WA Food Fund is raising money to provide food and supplies for those in need during the COVID-19 crisis, including the elderly, people who struggle with health issues or have lost their jobs, and children who normally rely on school for meals.

Our neighbors are going hungry during this crisis and we can help.

We need to act now to ensure that everyone in Washington has enough to eat. Every dollar donated helps provide meals for a child or family in need.  DONATE!

How to Support Washington Food Banks

The Seattle Food Committee's website lists all 27 member food banks. Check each food bank’s website and social media for how to help, or give them a call.

Northwest Harvest distributes food to 375 food banks, meal programs and school programs in Washington state. They accept monetary and food donations. Call 1-800-722-6924 or visit their website.

Food Lifeline helps source food for food banks in western Washington, from farmers, grocery stores and more. It’s accepting donations and has volunteer opportunities listed. Call first, at 1-877-404-7543.

Seattle Cancer Care Alliance

Seattle Cancer Care Alliance deeply appreciates the community’s support. We are now accepting donations of personal protection equipment.

Accepted items include masks, shields, gowns, hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes. Items must be new and in unopened packaging. Businesses and organizations interested in donating food for SCCA staff can also contact us to make arrangements. 

More information here about how to contact us and where to drop off items.

UW Medicine Emergency Response Fund

Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and Other In-kind Donations

UW Medicine is able to accept the following list of items in unopened and original packaging:

• Disposable face masks- all types, including N95 masks
• Clear face shields
• Clear safety/medical glasses or goggles
• Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) Systems
• Exam and surgical gloves
• Isolation gowns
• Disinfecting wipes
• Hand sanitizer

For information on how to donate these items, please visit their in-kind donation page, here.

FareStart

Restaurant and Foodservice Community Members

We know that unemployment benefits are critical for many people right now, but there is a way for you to receive ancillary income – and make a difference in our community.  Sign up to provide temporary, back-up support for FareStart staff as we scale up to provide emergency meals.

Ordering take out/delivery from restaurants that are offering it or purchasing gift cards to use in the future.

• Buca di Beppo
• Daniel's Broiler
• Dragonfish Asian Cafe
• Eastlake Bar & Grill
• Homegrown
• Lunchbox Laboratory
• Jack's BBQ
• Madres Kitchen
• Meat & Bread
• Tap House Grill
• The Collective
• Tutta Bella

#SupportSeattleSmallBiz - add your restaurant to this map! The map is updated in real-time as business owners provide the information you need. To be added to this map, contact supportsmallbiz@seattle.gov

Local for Later & Give Local

Local for Later: An ongoing list of local businesses you can support during social distancing. Add your business!

Give Local: Help Save a Local Business. Add you business!

Restaurant Workers' Community Foundation

RWCF COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund - The RCWF Board of Directors has approved directing funds raised during this crisis to be allocated in the following ways:

• 50% FOR DIRECT RELIEF TO INDIVIDUAL RESTAURANT WORKERS
• 25% FOR NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS SERVING RESTAURANT WORKERS IN CRISIS
• 25% FOR ZERO-INTEREST LOANS FOR RESTAURANTS TO GET BACK UP AND RUNNING

For more details, please see the FAQ's.

National Restaurant Association

Tell Congress to Support Restaurants & Our Employees!

Trophy Cupcakes - Pay It Forward

Support those in need and small business at the same time! Purchase cupcakes & Trophy Cupcakes will deliver them to one of their partners. (Based on where and when they will be most helpful)

Partners Include: Mary's Place, FareStart, Children's Hospital, Jewish Family Services, Dignity for Divas, and local food banks just to name a few.

Shop online with SLU retailers

• Argosy Cruises
• Athletic Awards
• The Center for Wooden Boats
• Downtown Dog Lounge
• Glazer's Camera
• Just Food For Dogs
• Kenmore Air
• Lake Union Hot Tub Boats
• MadArt
• Urban Optix
• Verde & Co.
• Waterways Cruises

Local for Later & Give Local

Local for Later: An ongoing list of local businesses you can support during social distancing. Add your business!

Give Local: Help Save a Local Business. Add you business!

The Collective: TO GO

Get a jump start on your quarantine blues. Sign up with a gym; get access to their online resources and get back into a fitness routine from home. Check in on their social media to see what you can do from home!

• Be Luminous Yoga
• Cyclebar
• Flow Fitness
• Row House
• Seattle PRO Sports Club
• Seattle Strength & Performance
• Shred415
• Transform 180

Be Luminous Yoga - Online Yoga Teacher Training, May 26 - June 20, 2020
After 10 years of leading the Be Luminous Yoga Teacher Training together, Michel Spruance and Tina Templeman are taking the 11th round of training online!

This program is for anyone interested in yoga who wants to write their next chapter consciously and powerfully, and finds themselves with the time to commit to a training right now. Participating in this training will give you power, choice, and clarity in a time of uncertainty and transition. You will get a deeper understanding of the physical and anatomical aspects of yoga and apply the teachings of yoga to your life.

You will leave this program:

• As a powerful leader in any realm you choose - yoga teaching, business, family - you name it.

• Ready to teach a solid power flow yoga class. Not someday - when you graduate.
• Liberated from old patterns that hold you back from living the best life you can imagine.
• With a long-lasting and deeply connected community that will support you for years to come.

Learn more at www.beluminousyoga.com/online-tt.

Seattle Strength & Performance

To help as many people as we can, we are offering a $10 virtual drop-in to any of our Zoom-live metabolic conditioning classes which we offer every day 7 days a week. Click here to purchase, then use Mindbody to book your class! Feel free to pass onto your friends. The beauty of virtual is it doesn't matter where you are in the world! We'd love to see you!

Getting Vaccinated in King County

National

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC)

Johns Hopkins Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases

Local

Starting on May 18, 2020, King County residents are directed to wear face coverings in most public settings.

Wear a face covering when you are at any indoor or outdoor public space where you may be within 6 feet of someone who does not live with you.

Everyone is strongly urged to wear face coverings in places such as:

• Stores that sell food and beverages
• Retail stores
• Restaurant take-out and food business
• Cannabis shops and stores that sell dietary supplements
• Tobacco and vapor shops
• Buses, light rail, and other forms of public transportation

A face covering is not needed when you are outside walking, exercising, or otherwise outdoors if you are able to regularly stay 6 feet away from other people who do not live with you.

LEARN MORE HERE.

Governor Inslee's Stay-At-Home Order - What's Open and Closed

Seattle & King County Public Health Website

• Common Questions About Coronavirus
• Public Health Insider official insights from public health - Seattle & King County staff
• Anti-Stigma Resources

Washington State Department of Health Website

Washington State Novel Coronavirus Call Center: 800-525-0127

Official Washington State COVID-19 response page

List of places offering testing and who is able to get tested.

COVID-19: Resources for the Community

Fred Hutch Research

Grounded in their experience with global health threats ranging from AIDS to Zika, Fred Hutch researchers are an important part of an international scientific response to the pandemic. They are tracking the virus' spread, developing diagnostic tests, designing future vaccine trials and preparing the organization for the disease's potential spread.

Fred Hutch Coronavirus Overview website

COVID19 in Schools: Parent Guide

On March 13, Governor Inslee ordered statewide public and privates school closures. Effective dates are Tuesday, March 17 through Friday, April 24, subject to extension.

The resources in this guide are intended to help parents, guardians, and families understand the school's role during a closure, commitments to students, and what making days up at the end of the school year looks like. Please note, this guide is subject to change as this situation evolves.

• COVID-19 in Schools: A Parent Guide (English) (Updated 3/7/2020)
• Coronavirus Novel (COVID-19) en escuelas de grados kínder a doce: Una guía para padres (Spanish) (Actualizado 3/7/2020)

School Closures

• School Closures Q&A (Updated 3/13/2020)
• Talking to Your Children About School Closures (Published 3/13/2020)

Find out more information and resources relating to school closures HERE

Follow these social media pages for current updates and information:

• Councilmember Andrew J. Lewis: @CMAndrewJLewis
• Governor Jay Inslee: @GovInslee
• Mayor Jenny Durkan: @MayorJenny
• Office of Economic Development: @SeattleEconomy
• Seattle City Council - @SeattleCouncil
• Seattle Human Services: @SeattleHSD
• Small Business Administration Pac NW: @SBAPacificNW
• Washington Department of Health: @WADeptHealth
• Washington Emergency Management on Twitter

Seattle Times COVID-19 Coverage

SDOT Blog - Temporary Transit Service Reductions Start Monday, March 23rd.

Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce - #WeGotThisWA

What's Inside The Senate's $2 Trillion Coronavirus Aid Package - How The 2 Trillion Breaks Down - NPR