The monthly unemployment rate in the state of Washington rose to 4% for the first time in five months as the economy lost an estimated 2,600 jobs. According to the Employment Security Department, unemployment insurance benefits were paid to 61,826 people in November. This marked a notable increase from the prior month.

ESD Chief Labor Economist Anneliese Vance-Sherman commented, October’s job gains were largely reversed in November. Payroll employment dropped and the unemployment rate reached 4.0% after five consecutive months below 4%. The demand for workers remains elevated. However, some softening of the labor market is evident.

In comparison to the national unemployment rate which decreased from 3.9% to 3.7% in November, the number of unemployed people in Washington state rose from 153,315 to 161,716. For detailed information, interested parties can visit the Employment Security Department’s website.

For those facing unemployment and needing assistance, it may be necessary to contact the Employment Security Department directly. The process of reaching a live person at the department can vary. In most cases, one can get in touch with a representative by initiating contact through the department’s helpline. Navigating unemployment and benefits can be complex, but the representatives are trained to assist with questions and concerns.