Employer/Employee Resources
Explore resources for employers and their employees to navigate coronavirus-related business closures. Visit the Financial Support page for information on available funding opportunities and Health + Public Services for additional resources.
TACOMA PUBLIC UTILITIES BUSINESS SUPPORT
We’re here to support you and your business. Contact our Business Solutions office to see if you are eligible for extended payment plans and waived late fees. We also remain committed to providing ways for your business to save money with a variety of programs and rebates. |
City’s 2020/2021 Construction Projects Forecasting
Workforce Central
In response to COVID-19, Workforce Central is providing links to resources for the community and businesses, a listing of partners and affiliate sites that are temporarily closed, and a listing of events and activities that are cancelled or postponed.
Rapid Response South Sound
- Financial Assistance
- Government Regulation Assistance
- HR & Employee Assistance
- Legal Assistance
- Communications Assistance
Pierce Transit Announces New On-Demand Runner Service for Ruston Way Zone
Gov. Islee extends relief from penalties, fees, interest and due dates
Gov. Inslee has extended the time that businesses impacted by COVID-19 can request relief from state penalties, fees, interest and other due dates until Jan. 19. For more information, visit the Department of Revenue website.
Additional $300 unemployment benefit payment to be paid to eligible claimants
The state’s application for the Lost Wages Assistance program has been approved. ESD will start processing payments of $300 to eligible claimants for this new program on Monday, Sept. 21. Payments will be retroactive for all weeks for which the claimant was eligible, and for which funding is available from the federal government. Upon the processing date, eligible claimants will receive the funds as soon as their bank processes the payment. Refer to the Employment Security Department website for details.
Washington State Small Business Liaison Team
A cross-sector team working to make Washington the best place to do business. The team includes 27 agencies participating in subgroups that focus on outreach programs, soliciting ideas for regulatory improvement, and developing new business tools. Download the liaison contact list.
Washington State Department of Commerce Economic Resiliency Team (ERT) Business Response Center.
Business owners and operators may obtain answers to general business inquiries regarding financial assistance, return to work or other business questions related to recovery efforts. ASK YOUR QUESTION HERE.
Governor Jay Inslee’s Office
The Governor’s proclamations page can be found here.
Washington Health Benefit Exchange
One in four Washingtonians get health and dental coverage through the Washington Healthplanfinder at wahealthplanfinder.org or the mobile app WAPlanfinder. Individuals can receive free help applying from an expert in their community at wahealthplanfinder.org/find-expert-advice.html.
- COVID-19 FAQs: Answers to frequently asked questions during the Coronavirus pandemic.
- How to Report a Change Online Through Washington Healthplanfinder
Current Washington Healthplanfinder enrollees are experiencing life changes as a result of COVID-19, including loss of income. Reporting changes may qualify individuals for additional financial help
Washington State Employment Security Department
ESD needs employer assistance regarding unemployment insurance fraud
Tips from the ESD for people applying for benefits and filing weekly claims:
- The more people prepare before they apply, the smoother their process will be to get their benefits.
- You can apply for benefits at any time. This is not a first-come-first-served program. There is no risk of funds running out.
- Payments are retroactive to a worker’s eligibility date. Once you have successfully applied and backdated your start date, your first payment will be for all weeks for which you are eligible.
- Weekly claims can be filed seven days a week. They can also be filed over the automated phone system: 800-318-6022
- E-services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The busiest times tend to be in the morning. ESD recommends trying during off-hours.
- If you are having difficulty filing your application, please visit ESD’s help page.
- Due to the continued high demand for unemployment benefits, ESD is offering a webinar for customers to learn more about setting up a Secure Access Washington (SAW) account and submitting a claim for benefits online.
- ESD also has created a tool kit for businesses and workers with the latest information and resources related to filing for unemployment benefits.
ESD launches daily webinars to assist customers signing up for unemployment benefits. Participants will be guided through:
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- Setting up a SAW account,
- Filing a new UI Claim,
- Guidance on standby and work search requirements,
- General UI requirements and information,
- Services and programs offered through the WorkSource Offices.
- Register here.
Washington Department of Labor and Industries
- Paid sick leave
- Workers’ compensation
- Workplace safety and health
- Stay informed
Washington State Coronavirus Response
Central repository of information regarding:
- Business and workers
- Childcare/K-12/higher education
- Health
- Government emergency actions
- You and your family
- Travelers and commuters
National Council of Nonprofits
Visit this site for guidance on the CARES Act specific to charitable nonprofit organizations. Resources include a CARES Act Loan Options matrix and webinar titled: Federal Coronavirus Relief Bills: What Do They Mean for Nonprofits?
America’s Small Business Development Center Washington
www.USA.gov/coronavirus

Government Response to Coronavirus, COVID-19 | USAGov
Government Response to Coronavirus, COVID-19. Learn about international travel restrictions, how you can prepare for coronavirus, and what the U.S. government is doing in response to the virus.
United States Department of Labor
Report Payroll Protection Program (“PPP”) fraud to the SBA Office of Inspector General.While new programs are helping people through difficult times, unfortunately, it comes with new avenues for scams and fraud. If you suspect fraud on an SBA program or want to learn more about known scams and alerts, visit the SBA Office of Inspector General website. Report fraud, waste or abuse
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US Chamber of Commerce small business guidance to new and returning PPP applicants
https://www.uschamber.com/report/guide-small-business-covid-19-emergency-loans