Federal layoffs drive 35% jump in unemployment claims among Washington employees

A 35% uptick in federal government layoffs is fueling a rise in unemployment claims among federal employees in Washington, state officials reported. The cuts are part of federal workforce reductions under the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency, run by Elon Musk.

Since the beginning of 2025, a total of 650 federal employees have filed for unemployment benefits, marking an increase over the 479 claims recorded during the same period last year. Officials noted that, since January 20, 362 federal employees have submitted claims, with a concentrated surge of 156 claims occurring during the five-day period from February 13 to February 18. On Tuesday, February 18 alone, 63 new claims were filed, contributing to an average of 14 new unemployment claims per day this year.

In addressing the rising figures, Governor Bob Ferguson stated, “My administration is standing at the ready to support all Washington workers – including federal government employees impacted by chaos in the federal government.”

Are federal workers eligible for Washington unemployment?

Employment Security Commissioner Cami Feek reinforced this commitment, saying, “We are ready to assist federal employees in these trying and uncertain times.”

Commissioner Feek emphasized that the department is working diligently to guide federal workers through the unemployment benefits application process and to offer support in their search for new job opportunities. The department is also providing information on eligibility criteria and connecting affected employees with resources to help them transition smoothly into new roles.

Under state guidelines, federal employees may be eligible for unemployment benefits if their official duty station was in Washington. Additionally, current Washington residents whose official duty station was outside the United States—or who worked in Washington after their last federal employment—may also qualify.

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