Unemployment insurance
Unemployment Insurance coverage is required if you employ 1 or more persons.
Excluded groups
Corporate officers are exempt, but you must notify them in writing that they are not being covered by unemployment insurance. Any claim for exemption, except corporate officers, must be approved by the Employment Security Department.
If you wish to provide coverage for corporate officers, you should indicate this on the Master Business Application. An Application for Voluntary Coverage will be sent to you.
Post your license
You may not begin this business activity until you receive a Registrations and Licenses document listing the required license.
How to get unemployment insurance
- File a Master Business Application online using a credit card (not recommended for some businesses).
- OR
- Complete the
Master Business Application form. Submit the application at any business licensing office or mail the completed application with the appropriate fee to:
- Master License Service
Department of Licensing
PO Box 9034
Olympia, WA 98507-9034
- Master License Service
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 |
| Master Business Application fee | $15 |
Contact information
Master License Service
Department of Licensing
PO Box 9034
Olympia, WA 98507-9034
Phone: (360) 664-1400
Email: MLS@dol.wa.gov
Fax: (360) 570-7875
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