Washington State Resources
Washington State Coronavirus Response includes what to do if you are ill, news, and more.
Washington State Department of Health has current information on COVID-19.
Apply for Unemployment with the Employment Security Department.
Check out this infographic for common COVID-19 scenarios and benefits available by the Employment Security Department.
WA State Governor’s plan to reopen construction (4.24.20):
Trust Offices
For members living in Western Washington and Central Washington, contact Carpenters Trusts of Western Washington for information on healthcare and retirement information.
Offices are closed for walk-ins. Please call (206) 441.6514 for information.
For members living in Southwestern Washington, contact William C Earhart Company for information on healthcare and retirement information.
Offices are closed for walk-ins. Please call (503) 460.5247 for information.
Additional Resources
211.org is a free, confidential referral and information helpline and website. It connects people of all ages and from all communities to the essential health and human services they need.
Foundation for Working Families Hardship Assistance Program
A non-profit organization created to assist union families in Washington state in times of hardship or disaster.
COVID-19 Child Care Support – You may qualify for financial assistance to pay for child care if you live or work in King County, fall within income guidelines, or are an essential worker.
Schools Have Food – Most schools still provide lunches to kids. Check your school district for availability.
ANEW offers financial and support services to apprentices in Washington. Contact ANEW’s office at 425-390-7703 or info@anewaop.org for faster service.
Washington FAQ
Last Updated: April 3, 2020
We will be adding additional questions as we are able to answer them. Answers that apply to all members in the Northwest Carpenters Union can be found at the bottom of our main COVID-19 resource page. If you have more questions or feel you did not get the answer you needed, contact us at (877) 284.7936 or COVID19@nwcarpenters.org.
No, the state waived the waiting period.
Yes. The definition of self-quarantine and isolation now includes following the Governor’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order.
It depends.
Your first choice should be to use your employer-paid time off.
If you cannot go to work because you don’t have childcare while schools are closed, you should call your employer and let them know why you are absent. If your employer fires you or lays you off while you are absent, then you may qualify for unemployment.
However, you are required to be able and actively seeking work each week you collect unemployment benefits. If you don’t have childcare and can return to your job or accept a work offer, you will not be eligible for unemployment benefits. If your situation changes, you should contact the Washington State Employment Security Department.
Checks need to be at least postmarked on the day of separation and may be sent via mail. The check doesn’t necessarily need to be hand-delivered to the person. Regardless, the scenario is described as a layoff.