The Employment Security Department is prepared to support individuals and businesses impacted by the ongoing strike at Boeing, which commenced on September 13, 2024. The strike will persist until Boeing and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) finalize an agreement.
Affected workers can determine their eligibility for unemployment benefits on a case-by-case basis. Those interested should use the eServices platform to apply for benefits and continue filing weekly claims during the waiting period for a decision.
Typically, workers on strike are not eligible for unemployment benefits. Eligibility may be affected if:
– Your union is conducting a strike.
– You participate in picketing or striking, regardless of your union membership.
– You are a contractor who is picketing or striking.
– You refuse work when it is available, regardless of the reason.
– You strike at the direction of your union representative.
– You refuse to cross a picket line when work is accessible.
If you stand to gain from the terms being negotiated in the contract, you will still be classified as participating in the labor dispute, even if you are not actively on the picket line.
For individuals laid off prior to the strike, the following guidelines apply:
– If you are not on strike and lack a scheduled return-to-work date, your unemployment benefits will conclude upon your return.
– If you are a striking machinist with a scheduled return date and the strike is ongoing, you will be deemed on strike starting from the date you were slated to return.
For the week of September 8, 2024, those who worked until September 13 may find themselves ineligible for unemployment benefits due to potential earnings exceeding the threshold. It is advisable to apply for benefits for the week of September 15 to September 21, which marks the first full week of the strike.
Regarding identity verification for new eServices accounts, individuals may need their Social Security card and a driver’s license or Washington state ID. If identity verification fails, users should upload copies of both documents to the secure upload portal.
Businesses impacted by the strike and facing reduced worker hours are encouraged to explore the SharedWork program, which has supported numerous businesses over the last 40 years in retaining skilled employees during challenging periods.