New Year, More Power - Unemployment Benefits For Striking Workers

Union members at Sacred Heart Spokane On Strike in 2024

As of January 1, 2026, locked-out or striking workers in Washington are eligible for up to six weeks of unemployment insurance (UI) starting as early as 15 days after a strike begins.

The money doesn’t fully replace a paycheck, and workers would need to meet the usual UI requirements. But, combined with our Union’s strike benefits on day one, the new law significantly strengthens our bargaining power.

“If we had this law before we struck Macy’s – that would have been huge. Though our strike fund helped my coworkers feel confident about walking off the job, many asked about unemployment. If we need to picket again, now we’ll be much stronger.” -- Liisa Luick, Alderwood Macy’s

Last year, our employers and their lobbyists made killing this legislation their top priority. Despite their best efforts, the collective strength of our membership and other union members across the state pushed this bill over the finish line.

Now, we need to prepare to make the most of this benefit.

Prep for a Strike Like A Pro

Our union faces big contract fights in the coming years. Getting prepared – and staying prepared – for a strike will help us all make decisions with strength and certainty when the time comes.
“We need a strike-ready union to fight against corporate greed. If we’re not strong when the time comes, they’ll roll right over us, and we really can’t afford that.” – Todd Heuer, Ballard Fred Meyer

Start Saving Now

If you save $10 per week between Jan 1, 2026 and May 1, 2027, you’ll have roughly $700 set aside. That extra cushion will help stretch UI benefits and strike pay if we strike.

Know Your Rights

Review our union’s strike page, read up on Washington’s unemployment eligibility, and browse for information on union hardship funds and community aid options.

Stay Ready to Mobilize

Have you moved recently? Changed your name or phone number? Swapped worksites? Then take time now to update your contact info. Staying connected gives us strength and unity if bargaining heats up.

Step Up

Contact your Union Rep to learn how to build more power in your store.