Job Loss Support and Unemployment Help for Single Mothers in Washington
Job Loss Support & Unemployment Help for Single Mothers in Washington
Last updated: September 2025
This guide is a one‑page hub you can act on today. Every step links straight to official Washington resources. Keep your phone nearby so you can call, apply, and screenshot confirmations as you go.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- File your Washington Unemployment Insurance (UI) claim now: Apply online in eServices through the Washington Employment Security Department (ESD) and note that Washington has a “waiting week,” so you don’t get paid for the first payable week. Use the claims center if you need a phone application. Apply for unemployment in eServices, How to apply for unemployment benefits. (esd.wa.gov)
- Stop a utility shutoff today: Ask your electric or gas utility for a “winter low‑income payment program” plan and emergency hold, then schedule a LIHEAP/SHEAP appointment. WAC electric disconnection rules, Find LIHEAP/SHEAP by county. (law.cornell.edu)
- Keep health coverage continuous: If you lost job‑based insurance, use a 60‑day Special Enrollment Period on Washington Healthplanfinder, or see if your income qualifies your family for Apple Health (Medicaid). Health insurance after a job loss, Apple Health for adults. (wahealthplanfinder.org)
Quick Help Box — Pin These Numbers and Links
- Unemployment claims: 1-800-318-6022 (Mon–Fri 8–4). ESD contact center, Language help for interpretation. (esd.wa.gov)
- Basic Food (SNAP), TANF/WorkFirst, WCCC child care: 1-877-501-2233. DSHS apply online, Basic Food info. (dshs.wa.gov)
- Eviction legal help: 1-800-606-4819 (Washington LawHelp directory), or ask the Office of Civil Legal Aid Right‑to‑Counsel network. OCLA eviction defense program, WashingtonLawHelp housing pages. (ocla.wa.gov)
- Health coverage enrollment: 1-855-923-4633 (Healthplanfinder). Job‑loss coverage options, Apple Health adults. (wahealthplanfinder.org)
- Unemployment appeals/OAH: 1-800-583-8271. Appeal your UI decision, OAH unemployment hearing info. (esd.wa.gov)
Who This Guide Is For
You’re a single mom in Washington who just lost your job or have been out of work for a while. The steps below focus on unemployment benefits, urgent bills, and the fastest programs that keep a roof, power, food, child care, and health coverage in place. You’ll see direct links to agencies, realistic timelines, and “Plan B” if the first path stalls. ESD Unemployment hub, WorkSource Washington. (esd.wa.gov)
How to Get Washington Unemployment Insurance Without Delays
Start here because UI can stabilize cash flow while you job search. Apply online for faster results; phone is available with longer waits. Expect a waiting week, then the first possible payment after you submit your first weekly claim and any identity or wage checks clear.
- Eligibility and amounts: For new claims opened July 6, 2025 through June 2026, the weekly minimum is 366andthemaximumis366 and the maximum is 1,152, based on your past wages. 2024 average wage update with 2025–2026 UI min/max, Estimate your benefit. (esd.wa.gov)
- The waiting week: Washington has a waiting week; you don’t get paid for the first eligible week you claim. Plan cash flow accordingly. Choose how you get paid, Basic eligibility. (esd.wa.gov)
- Work‑search rules: Do at least three approved job‑search activities each claim week and keep a log. Sign up with WorkSource. Job search requirements, WorkSource appointment help. (esd.wa.gov)
Steps — Apply, Certify, Prove Work Search
- Create or sign in to eServices: Apply online, choose direct deposit or debit card, and upload any documents ESD requests. How to apply for UI, ESD contact if stuck. (esd.wa.gov)
- File weekly claims: Submit every week you’re unemployed; missing a week delays payment. Weekly claims basics, Payment method options. (esd.wa.gov)
- Log three activities: Apply for jobs, attend WorkSource workshops, or complete assessments—just keep proof. Approved activities list, WorkSource Washington. (esd.wa.gov)
Reality Check — What to Expect
- Timelines: The first payment can take a few weeks if identity or wages need review, and the waiting week always applies. Waiting week explanation, Eligibility basics. (esd.wa.gov)
- Standby and partial work: If your employer gives you a return‑to‑work date within a few weeks, request Standby to pause work‑search. If hours are cut, you may qualify for partial benefits. Standby/temporary layoffs, Partial benefits overview. (esd.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
Appeal within 30 days if denied; OAH hearings are by phone and you can submit evidence. Ask for interpreter or disability accommodations ahead of time. Appeal your UI decision, OAH unemployment hearing guide. (esd.wa.gov)
Train for a Better Job While You Collect Benefits
If your old field has dried up, train while keeping UI. Some options pause work‑search and even add weeks to your claim.
- Training Benefits (TB): Up to 26 extra weeks for approved training; strict 90‑day (apply) and 120‑day (enroll) deadlines from claim start, with exceptions. Training Benefits program, TB hotline 1-877-600-7701. (esd.wa.gov)
- Commissioner‑Approved Training and SEAP: CAT waives work‑search during full‑time training; the Self‑Employment Assistance Program supports starting a business while on UI. SEAP program, Programs ESD manages. (esd.wa.gov)
- WorkSource + WIOA scholarships: Ask about WIOA Title I‑B training, apprenticeships, and supportive services (gear, transportation). WorkSource Washington, WIOA Dislocated Worker results. (worksourcewa.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work
If Training Benefits timing is tight, consider BFET (for SNAP recipients) or a short WorkSource certificate while you reapply for TB next claim year. BFET overview, BFET policy detail. (dshs.wa.gov)
Keep Your Family Covered — Health Insurance After Job Loss
Losing employer coverage triggers a 60‑day special enrollment window. Apple Health has no deadline if your income now fits.
- Apple Health (Medicaid): Many adults qualify when income drops; coverage can start the first day of the month you apply. Apple Health for adults, Apple Health expansion for immigration‑limited adults. (hca.wa.gov)
- Marketplace plans: Compare Cascade Care plans and subsidies in Washington Healthplanfinder; apply within 60 days of losing coverage. Job‑loss coverage options, Who can sign up. (wahealthplanfinder.org)
- COBRA vs. WA mini‑COBRA (continuation): COBRA is often costliest. For small‑group plans, ask about Washington continuation plans and compare to Healthplanfinder. COBRA basics (OIC), Continuation plans (mini‑COBRA). (insurance.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
Ask a free, local Healthplanfinder navigator to enroll you; request language help if needed. Healthplanfinder support center, Language support options.
Food Money Now — Basic Food (SNAP) While You Job Search
Apply even if you think you’re just over the line; deductions for child care, rent, and utilities can change the outcome.
- Apply same day: Use Washington Connection or call DSHS to complete your interview. Apply at Washington Connection, Basic Food program info. (dshs.wa.gov)
- Benefit levels: Maximum allotments run on the federal fiscal year; for FY 2025, a 4‑person maximum in the 48 states is $975. USDA SNAP FY 2025 COLA, DSHS Basic Food deductions. (fns.usda.gov)
- Keep benefits while training: If you get Basic Food and are not on TANF, ask about BFET for tuition, books, and support like bus passes. BFET eligibility, Employment & Training hub. (dshs.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
Appeal a denial, ask for an interpreter, and request expedited service if you have very low cash or a shutoff notice. DSHS contact center, Washington Connection. (manuals.dshs.wa.gov)
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Washington Today
If you have a disconnection notice, act today. You have rights, and there are state energy programs you can stack.
- Call your utility immediately: Ask to set up an agreed payment plan and reference the winter low‑income payment program rules. WAC electric disconnection rules, WAC gas disconnection rules. (law.cornell.edu)
- Schedule energy assistance: LIHEAP (federal) or Washington’s new SHEAP (state) can pay your bill and even help with broken heating/cooling. Find LIHEAP by county, State Home Energy Assistance Program (SHEAP). (commerce.wa.gov)
- If you’re in Seattle/King County: City programs point you to local agencies (Byrd Barr Place, Hopelink, Multi‑Service Center). Seattle City Light bill assistance, Byrd Barr Place energy page. (seattle.gov)
Reality Check — Timelines
- Emergency LIHEAP/SHEAP: Disconnect emergencies are often prioritized within 72 hours by some agencies; normal processing can take longer in peak season. Byrd Barr Place timeline note, Commerce LIHEAP overview. (byrdbarrplace.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
File a complaint with the Utilities and Transportation Commission for regulated utilities; they can often mediate a payment plan. UTC consumer help, UTC complaint line 1-888-333-9882. (atg.wa.gov)
Child Care While You Job Search or Train
Washington invests in child care so you can work on re‑employment. Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) can cut your monthly copay.
- Who qualifies: As of 2025, families can qualify up to 75% of State Median Income, with copays capped (many at $215). Apply online or by phone. WCCC overview, Copay and eligibility changes. (dcyf.wa.gov)
- Recent changes: State law expands eligibility from 60% SMI to 75% SMI (July 1, 2025), then up to 85% SMI (subject to funding). Senate bill summary, DCYF update. (app.leg.wa.gov)
- Early learning options: ECEAP and Head Start provide free preschool; ask about slots near you. ECEAP info, ECEAP/Head Start for families. (dcyf.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
Ask your workforce counselor to layer BFET or WIOA supportive services for child care while you train or job search. BFET program, WorkSource Washington. (dshs.wa.gov)
Cash Back You Might Be Missing
When money is tight, check these two first—both are fast wins in Washington.
- Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC): Up to $1,290 for tax year 2024 (file in 2025) based on family size and EITC rules; you can also claim past years (up to three). WFTC eligibility and amounts, 2025 filing window news. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)
- Unclaimed property (“Claim Your Cash”): Washington holds billions in forgotten checks and deposits—search your name and claim online. ClaimYourCash.org via DOR, Unclaimed Property Day news. (dor.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
Use a free tax preparer (VITA) or a local United Way tax site to file and claim credits; ask for ITIN help if needed. IRS VITA locator, United Way of King County tax help.
Housing & Eviction Defense
If you’re behind on rent because of job loss, get both cash help and legal help lined up.
- Right‑to‑Counsel: Low‑income tenants in eviction court are eligible for appointed counsel through the state’s program. OCLA eviction defense, OCLA program overview. (ocla.wa.gov)
- King County example: United Way’s Home Base coordinates rental assistance and legal support, but funding is limited—apply fast. United Way rent help, Home Base overview. (uwkc.org)
- Know your local path: When county programs close, your Community Action Agency and legal aid network are the next stops. Hopelink financial assistance, Find your Hopelink center. (hopelink.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
Call 2‑1‑1 for county‑specific rent help and shelter options, and ask the clerk about free “fee waiver” forms if you need to file anything in court. Washington 211, WashingtonLawHelp housing.
Transportation Savings While You Job Hunt
Cut transit costs with reduced fares and gas money relief when possible.
- ORCA LIFT: $1 rides across many Puget Sound systems for incomes up to 200% of poverty; apply by phone or online and get a card by mail. ORCA LIFT eligibility and apply, Reduced fare portal. (kingcounty.gov)
- WIOA/BFET support: Ask your WorkSource or BFET case manager for bus passes or mileage help when you’re in training or workshops. WorkSource Washington, BFET overview. (worksourcewa.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work
Ask your child’s school about McKinney‑Vento transportation if you’re temporarily doubled‑up or homeless due to job loss. OSPI McKinney‑Vento, Washington Homeless Education contacts.
Child Support Changes After Job Loss
If your income changed, ask for a modification; don’t ignore notices because debt can snowball.
- Get help from DCS: Call to review your order and set up a new payment plan or ask about Alternative Solutions. Division of Child Support, Child support modification.
- Know where to call: Use the KIDS line or your local field office; ask for interpreter services or TTY 711. DCS contact and field offices, Seattle DCS office.
What to do if this doesn’t work
If an automatic withholding hits new PFML or UI benefits in error amounts, call both DCS and ESD to correct. DCS latest updates, ESD unemployed worker contacts.
Overpayments and Appeals — Don’t Panic
If you get an overpayment letter from ESD, act fast; interest rules and waivers vary.
- Pandemic‑era waivers: Washington is waiving many 2020–2021 overpayments; you can also request refunds if already repaid. Overpayment waivers update, Waiver application steps.
- Collections unit: If you need a payment plan, call the collections line; liens and offsets are possible if you ignore it. Paying back an overpayment, ESD contact – collections.
What to do if this doesn’t work
Appeal on time and continue filing weekly while it’s pending; ask OAH for accommodations or interpreter. Appeal UI decision, OAH hearing requests.
Tables You Can Screenshot
Unemployment Quick Facts (July 2025–June 2026 benefit years)
Item | Details |
---|---|
Weekly benefit range | 366minimum–366 minimum – 1,152 maximum (based on earnings) |
Waiting week | Yes, no payment for the first payable week |
Weekly work‑search | At least 3 approved activities, keep a log |
Appeals deadline | 30 days from decision date |
Where to apply | eServices online or 1-800-318-6022 |
Sources: ESD average wage update (min/max), Job search rules.
Fast Programs to Stabilize a Household
Need | First Action | Backup |
---|---|---|
Health insurance | Healthplanfinder job‑loss enrollment | Apple Health |
Food money | Basic Food apply | BFET for training + support |
Utilities | LIHEAP map | SHEAP (state energy aid) |
Child care | WCCC | ECEAP preschool |
Rent/eviction | OCLA eviction defense | United Way (King Co.) |
Money You Can Claim
Thing to Claim | Where | Typical Range |
---|---|---|
Working Families Tax Credit | WFTC eligibility | 50–50–1,290 (TY 2024; file in 2025) |
Unclaimed money/property | ClaimYourCash.org | Varies; checks issued in 6–8 weeks in many cases |
Utility bill aid | LIHEAP / SHEAP | Based on need; ask your local agency |
Child Care Support Snapshot (2025)
Program | Who Qualifies | Cost |
---|---|---|
WCCC | Working/training parents up to 75% SMI (from July 2025) | Copay often 0–0–215 |
ECEAP | Preschoolers based on income/need | Free |
Head Start | Preschoolers based on income/other factors | Free |
Sources: WCCC overview, State law changes.
Appeals & Legal Help Shortcuts
Topic | First Stop |
---|---|
UI appeal | Appeal with ESD; OAH will schedule hearing. |
Eviction | OCLA eviction defense; ask court clerk about Right‑to‑Counsel. |
Discrimination/Accessibility | ESD Equal Opportunity/ADA help; request interpreter/TTY 711. |
Diverse Communities — Tailored Notes and Links
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for name and gender marker respect on all state applications; request an interpreter or ADA accommodation as needed. Get civil legal help or ID updates through community legal clinics. ESD Equal Opportunity resources, QLaw Foundation WA.
- Single mothers with disabilities or with a disabled child: Request reasonable accommodations for UI, WorkSource, and hearings, and ask for large‑print or alternate formats. Consider Division of Vocational Rehabilitation for job supports. ESD ADA contacts, Job search rules note on VR activities.
- Veteran single mothers: Ask WorkSource for Priority of Service, and check VA or WDVA for emergency aid, child care help, and job placement. WorkSource Washington, Washington Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: You can get Apple Health Expansion coverage if immigration limits block other Apple Health, and you can apply for WFTC with an ITIN. Use free language help when calling ESD. Apple Health Expansion, WFTC eligibility (SSN or ITIN).
- Tribal‑specific resources: If you’re in a Tribal TANF area, rules and supports can differ (often more flexible for training and culture‑based activities). Examples include Spokane Tribal TANF and SPIPA TANF/Work programs. Spokane Tribe 477/TANF, South Puget Intertribal Planning Agency.
- Rural single moms: Use phone‑based WorkSource coaching and request tele‑appointments for ESD and OAH. Ask your library about printing, scanning, and free Wi‑Fi for weekly claims. WorkSource Washington, OAH hearing requests.
- Single fathers: The same benefits and legal protections apply—use the same steps in this guide for UI, child care, Basic Food, and legal help. DSHS child support, WCCC.
- Language access: Ask for free interpreter services up front when calling ESD or DSHS; TTY is 711 statewide. ESD language help, ESD Equal Opportunity notice.
Resources by Region — Where to Go Locally
- Seattle / North & East King County: Byrd Barr Place (energy, rent navigation), Hopelink (rent, energy, food), plus United Way of King County Home Base (eviction prevention).
- South King County (Auburn–Kent–Federal Way): Multi‑Service Center (rent, energy, education), King County Bar Housing Justice Project (eviction defense).
- Tacoma / Pierce County: Associated Ministries (coordinated entry & referrals), Pierce County Eviction Prevention (when open).
- Spokane / Eastern WA: SNAP Spokane (energy aid), Catholic Charities Eastern Washington (rent/food), and Spokane Tribal TANF in service areas.
- Snohomish / Everett: Volunteers of America Western WA (rent/energy), Lynnwood Food Bank, and ORCA LIFT (reduced fares).
- Southwest (Vancouver / Clark): WorkSource SW Washington (training + hiring events), Share Vancouver (shelter, rent).
- Yakima / Kittitas: OIC of Washington (rent/energy), Northwest Community Action Center (Sunnyside).
- Tri‑Cities (Benton–Franklin): Community Action Connections (rent/energy), 2‑1‑1 (navigation).
- Whatcom / Island / San Juan: Opportunity Council (energy/rent), Whatcom Community Resource Center contacts (county lines).
- Kitsap / Olympic Peninsula: Kitsap Community Resources (rent/energy), SPIPA (tribal programs and TANF support).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Reporting weekly claims late: Missing a week halts payment; set a calendar reminder every Sunday. Weekly claims info, ESD contact for issues.
- Not keeping a job‑search log: ESD can audit and deny weeks without proof. Approved activities + log, WorkSource workshops.
- Delaying child‑care applications: WCCC has finite slots and processing times; apply while you job search. WCCC, DCYF news on eligibility expansion.
- Ignoring overpayment letters: Interest or collections can follow; ask about waivers and payment plans. Overpayment waivers, Repayment options.
Reality Check
- Funding runs out: Rent and energy funds open and close depending on the county. Always confirm current status before applying. LIHEAP overview, United Way rent help status.
- Waiting week is real: Budget knowing there’s no payment for the first payable week of UI. ESD payment method page, Eligibility basics.
- Mandatory work‑search: Most claimants must do three weekly activities and log them, even if the website doesn’t ask you to enter them every time. Job‑search rules, Unemployment FAQs.
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Unemployment claims: 1-800-318-6022; ESD contact.
- Appeals/OAH: 1-800-583-8271; Appeal UI decision.
- DSHS programs: 1-877-501-2233; Washington Connection.
- Health coverage: 1-855-923-4633; Healthplanfinder job‑loss enrollment.
- Energy assistance: LIHEAP map; SHEAP (state energy aid).
- Working Families Tax Credit: 360-763-7300; WFTC eligibility.
Application Checklist (screenshot‑friendly)
- Government ID: driver license, state ID, tribal ID, or passport. ESD identity help, OAH accessibility.
- Social Security number or ITIN: for UI/WFTC/health coverage. WFTC ITIN allowed, Healthplanfinder enrollment.
- Past 18 months of employment: employer names, addresses, start/end dates, and wages. Estimate your UI benefit, ESD basic eligibility.
- Proof of income and bills: pay stubs, rent/lease, utility bills, child care invoices. Basic Food deductions, LIHEAP documents.
- Child info: ProviderOne/Apple Health card numbers, child support orders, child care provider details. Apple Health for adults, WCCC apply.
Troubleshooting — If Your Application Gets Denied
- Unemployment Insurance: File an appeal in eServices or by mail within 30 days; keep filing weekly claims during the appeal. Request interpreter or ADA accommodations from OAH. Appeal UI decision, OAH unemployment hearing info.
- Basic Food or TANF: Ask for a case conference and a fair hearing; request expedited service if you have little or no cash, or a shutoff notice. DSHS contact center, Washington Connection.
- Health coverage: Ask a navigator or broker to re‑run your eligibility, and check Apple Health Expansion if immigration status limits you. Healthplanfinder, Apple Health Expansion.
Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups
Pair state benefits with trusted community help for groceries, rent, utility deposits, diapers, and job coaching.
- King County: Byrd Barr Place (food/energy), Hopelink (rent/energy), Solid Ground (housing stability).
- Pierce County: Associated Ministries (coordinated entry), St. Leo Food Connection (food), Metropolitan Development Council (housing, health).
- Spokane: SNAP Spokane (energy), Second Harvest (food).
- Whatcom/Island/San Juan: Opportunity Council (utilities/housing), Bellingham Food Bank (food).
- Southwest (Clark/Cowlitz/Wahkiakum): WorkSource SW WA (job training), Share Vancouver (shelter).
County‑Specific Variations to Watch
- Child‑care copays can vary within updated SMI tiers; confirm your bracket when you apply. WCCC copay chart, State eligibility expansion news.
- Energy providers offer their own discounts on top of LIHEAP/SHEAP (e.g., Seattle City Light Utility Discount Program). City Light bill assistance, LIHEAP WA.
- Eviction prevention often flows through local Community Action Agencies and may pause when funds exhaust. United Way of King County rent help, Washington 211.
FAQs — Washington Job Loss Help for Single Moms
- How much can I get on UI in 2025? New claims opened July 6, 2025–June 2026 pay between 366and366 and 1,152 per week, based on past wages. Apply early and file weekly claims. Min/max amounts, Estimate your benefit.
- Can I qualify if I quit due to child‑care loss or safety? Washington has “good cause” rules; provide proof (e.g., closed child‑care, domestic violence). It’s adjudicated—appeal if denied. Basic eligibility, Appeal info.
- How many work‑search activities do I need? Three each week; keep a log and proof. WorkSource workshops count. Job‑search requirements, WorkSource events.
- Can I do gig work and still collect? Yes, report earnings each week; UI is reduced by what you earn. Partial benefits may still pay something. Partial benefits blog, Weekly claims.
- How fast can I stop a power shutoff? Call your utility now for a payment plan, then book LIHEAP/SHEAP; emergency cases can be prioritized within ~72 hours by some agencies. WAC disconnections, Byrd Barr emergency note.
- Can I get child care while job‑hunting? Yes—WCCC can cover care while you look for work or attend training; apply early. WCCC, Eligibility expansion.
- How do I keep health insurance after I lost my job? Use a 60‑day Special Enrollment Period on Healthplanfinder or see Apple Health, which you can enroll in year‑round. Healthplanfinder job‑loss page, Apple Health.
- I got an overpayment letter—what now? Don’t ignore it; ask about a waiver or payment plan. Pandemic‑era overpayments may be waivable. Overpayments and waivers, Repayment options.
- Can I appeal and still get paid? File weekly claims while your appeal is pending; if you win, back weeks may be released. Appeals overview, OAH hearing info.
- I moved to Washington—where do I file? If your last work was in WA, file with ESD even if you now live out of state; register with your local job center too. ESD basic eligibility, WorkSource locator.
Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)
- Seguro de Desempleo (UI): Solicite en línea por eServices y presente tres actividades de búsqueda de trabajo cada semana. Cómo solicitar, Requisitos de búsqueda de trabajo.
- Servicios de energía: Llame a su compañía para un plan de pago y programe LIHEAP/SHEAP. LIHEAP por condado, SHEAP.
- Seguro médico: Use su Período Especial de Inscripción de 60 días o Apple Health si sus ingresos bajaron. Seguro tras perder empleo, Apple Health.
- Comida: Aplique para Basic Food y pida entrevista acelerada si tiene poco efectivo. Basic Food, Washington Connection.
- Asistencia de impuestos y dinero perdido: Revise si califica para Working Families Tax Credit y busque propiedad no reclamada. WFTC, ClaimYourCash.org.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Employment Security Department (ESD), Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH).
- Washington Department of Social & Health Services (DSHS), Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF).
- Washington Health Benefit Exchange, Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA).
- Washington State Department of Commerce – LIHEAP/SHEAP, U.S. Department of Agriculture – SNAP 2025 COLA.
- Washington Department of Revenue – Working Families Tax Credit & Unclaimed Property, Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner.
- Washington Utilities & Transportation Commission rules (via WAC), Office of Civil Legal Aid – Eviction Defense.
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
This guide provides general information for Washington residents and is not legal, tax, health, or financial advice. Always confirm program availability and amounts with the administering agency before applying. When in doubt, call the number on your notice and request interpreter or disability accommodations. ESD Equal Opportunity/Accessibility, Language help.
Plan B Reminders Across This Guide
- If phones are jammed: Try eServices after 6 p.m. or WorkSource chat for quick triage. Unemployed worker contacts, WorkSource Washington.
- If time is short: File the application first; you can upload documents later. For energy shutoffs, call the utility and the agency the same day. LIHEAP map, City Light bill help.
- If you need language help: Say your language and “interpreter” at the start of the call; for TTY, dial 711. ESD language help, Equal Opportunity notice.
Take a breath. Prioritize UI + utilities + health insurance today, then add food, child care, and training. Use the links in each paragraph to move fast, and call to confirm current availability before applying.
🏛️More Washington Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Washington
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery