The Employment Security Department is prepared to assist workers and businesses impacted by the ongoing strike at Boeing, which started on September 13, 2024. This strike will remain in effect until an agreement is reached between Boeing and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM).
Eligible workers who are affected can find information regarding benefits. Determination of unemployment benefit eligibility for individuals involved in a labor dispute will be made on a case-by-case basis. Workers are encouraged to apply for benefits through eServices and to continue submitting weekly claims while awaiting decisions.
Typically, workers participating in a strike are not eligible for unemployment benefits. You may be considered to be striking if:
– Your union has initiated a strike.
– You participate in picketing or striking, regardless of union membership.
– You strike as a contractor.
– You refuse work available for any reason.
– You strike at the direction of your union representative.
– You do not cross a picket line when work is accessible.
Even if you are not actively picketing, if you stand to benefit from the negotiations, you may still be recognized as part of the labor dispute.
For workers laid off prior to the strike, specific conditions apply. If you were not involved in the strike and do not have a scheduled return date, your unemployment benefits will cease on the day you go back to work. Conversely, if you are a striking worker with a scheduled return and the strike continues, you are considered on strike starting from your return date.
In regard to claiming benefits for the week of September 8, 2024, those who worked leading up to Friday, September 13 may not qualify due to earnings exceeding eligibility limits. It is advisable to look into filing for benefits for the week spanning September 15 to September 21, the strike’s first full week.
For identity verification, those needing to register a new eServices account will have to confirm their identity, using a social security card and a Washington state driver’s license or ID card. If identity verification fails, individuals should upload copies of both documents via a secure upload portal.
Regarding businesses, those reducing employees’ hours due to the strike are encouraged to explore the SharedWork program, which has helped many businesses retain qualified employees during uncertain times for over 40 years. Interested businesses can learn more about how to decrease payroll expenses through SharedWork.