The Employment Security Department is prepared to support individuals and businesses impacted by the ongoing strike at Boeing, which started on September 13, 2024, and will persist until an agreement is reached between Boeing and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM).
Individuals affected by the strike are encouraged to understand their eligibility for unemployment benefits. The department evaluates each case individually to determine if workers involved in the labor dispute qualify for assistance. Those seeking benefits should utilize eServices for their applications and continue to file weekly claims while awaiting decisions.
Typically, striking workers do not qualify for unemployment benefits, which can include cases where a union is on strike, when workers picket or refuse work, or when they uphold a picket line. Even workers who will benefit from the contract negotiation may still be classified as part of the strike, regardless of their participation on the picket line.
For those laid off before the strike commenced, eligibility for benefits varies based on union membership and return-to-work dates. Non-striking machinists without a scheduled return to work will have their benefits conclude once they resume work, whereas striking machinists with a set return date will be considered on strike from their original return date onward.
For claims pertaining to the week of September 8, 2024, employees who worked up to September 13 might have earned too much to qualify for benefits during that week. Workers are advised to apply for benefits for the week of September 15 to September 21, marking the first full week of the strike.
Those registering for a new eServices account should prepare for identity verification, requiring a social security card and a driver’s license or Washington state ID. If verification issues arise, individuals can upload necessary documents to the secure portal.
Businesses affected by the strike that need to reduce employee hours may explore the SharedWork program, which has assisted numerous companies in maintaining their skilled workforce during challenging times.