DC Department of Employment Services (DOES)

What it is

The District of Columbia Department of Employment Services (DOES) is the DC government agency whose stated mission is to connect District residents, job seekers and employers to opportunities and resources. It administers the unemployment insurance program, including UI taxes paid by employers, enforces District labor laws through its Labor Standards Bureau, and runs workforce programs funded under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.

What it offers founders

For a founder, DOES becomes relevant the moment you hire. Employers use the DOES Self Service Portal to manage unemployment insurance tax matters, and the UI Tax Division determines employer liability and handles questions about tax rates and filing schedules. Quarterly and annual contribution and wage reports (Forms UC-30 and UC-30-H) are published on the UI Tax for Employers page, along with a UI Employer Handbook.

The Office of Talent and Client Services offers employers strategy and planning, concierge consulting, and recruiting and hiring support, including access to District applicants. Related employer programs include Job Bank Services, Rapid Response, Trade Adjustment Assistance, apprenticeships, foreign labor certification and the Work Opportunity Tax Credit. DOES notes that, effective January 1, 2026, the Work Opportunity Tax Credit is in hiatus until Congress reauthorizes it.

The Labor Standards Bureau investigates wage complaints, evaluates workplace safety and health, and handles workers' compensation claims and disputes for private sector employees. See the Labor Standards and Worker Protection page.

Who it is for

Any business with employees in the District, from a first hire onward, as well as DC residents looking for work or training.

How to engage

DOES headquarters is at 4058 Minnesota Avenue NE, Washington, DC 20019, open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The main line is (202) 724-7000 and the UI Tax Division can be reached at (202) 698-7550. Employers can schedule a consultation through the Office of Talent and Client Services page, and the contact directory lists other offices.

Why it matters in the DMV ecosystem

Maryland and Virginia have their own labor departments, so a startup with DC based employees needs a DC unemployment insurance account and must follow District wage and worker protection rules. Engaging with DOES early helps founders register correctly and tap local hiring support.