Unemployment insurance
Unemployment Insurance coverage is required if you employ 1 or more persons.
Exempting corporate officers
Officers of for-profit corporations who provide services in Washington will be covered for unemployment insurance unless their employer specifically exempts them. If you want to exempt your corporate officers from coverage, you must submit an exemption request form to the Employment Security Department.
Post your license
You may not begin this business activity until you receive a Business License listing the required license.
How to get unemployment insurance
Online
By mail
- Complete a Business License Application.
- Mail your completed application with a check or money order payable to “Department of Revenue” for the fees to:
State of Washington
Business Licensing Service
PO Box 9034
Olympia, WA 98507-9034
In person
- Complete the Business License Application.
- Bring your completed application and fees to any business licensing office.
Fees
| Specialty license |
Fees |
| Unemployment insurance |
No fee |
| Other fees that may apply |
Fees |
| State tax registration |
No fee |
| Registering your business name as a trade name |
$5 |
| Business License Application fee |
$15 (non-refundable) |
Contact information
State of Washington
Business Licensing Service
PO Box 9034
Olympia, WA 98507-9034
Phone: 1-800-451-7985
Email: BLS@dor.wa.gov
Fax: 360-705-6699
Office hours
Monday through Friday
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Mailing information
Please remember to enclose all necessary documents and fees with your completed application. Incomplete submissions will result in a delay in your licensure.
It is important that you contact our office, in writing, with any changes in address.
Regulatory questions
Employment Security Department
Phone: 1-800-318-6022
http://www.esd.wa.gov
