Webinar for federal workers to learn about Washington benefits and reemployment resources set for May 29

OLYMPIA – The Employment Security Department, along with state and local partners, continues its webinar series for federal workers who work and live in Washington state. The next webinar is Thursday, May 29, from 10 a.m. to noon.
More than 120 participants from 13 different federal agencies attended webinars in March and April. Nearly 50 are already registered for the May 29 briefing.
There is no limit to the number of participants who can register. Registration is free and is open until the event starts.
The webinars, part of the state’s rapid response efforts for large layoffs, are intended to help federal workers who were laid off, facing a furlough or expecting a workforce reduction.

Unemployment claims for federal workers in 2025

Through May 21, more than 1,300 federal employees have filed for unemployment benefits in 2025 compared to 792 at this time last year – a 64% increase.
  • February saw the largest number of new claims with 611.
  • March saw a decrease to 245 in new claims.
  • April ended with 135 new claims.

Webinar partners

The webinar series is a collaboration of state and local agencies and programs that includes Employment Security, WorkSource, Local Workforce Development Boards, Washington Health Plan Finder, Washington State Community & Technical Colleges and the Washington State Labor Council.
This webinar receives support and funding from a U.S. Department of Labor grant. Read more on the USDOL grants page.
Register for webinar, Thursday, May 29, 2025, 10 a.m. to noon
Read the full news release