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One last tip - keep detailed records of all your unemployment tax payments. Both federal and state. You'll need them for audits and year-end reporting.
Just to summarize for the OP - you'll pay FUTA (federal) directly to IRS and state unemployment tax to Washington ESD. Both are calculated on wages but have different rates and wage bases. Stay current on both to avoid penalties and maintain the FUTA credit.
If anyone figures out the magic formula for getting through, please share! We're all struggling with the same thing here.
Will definitely update if I find something that works consistently. This thread has given me some new ideas to try.
Seriously, the Claimyr thing I mentioned earlier has been the most reliable method I've found. Check out that demo video if you're curious.
Update: Finally got through using the early morning strategy! Called at exactly 8:00 AM and waited on hold for 2 hours but actually talked to someone. They were able to clear up my pending issue. Don't give up!
Just remember that even with good cause, unemployment benefits are temporary. Use the time to find something better, not just to get away from your current job.
Had a friend who waited 2 months to file because she thought she'd find work quickly. When she finally filed, she realized she'd lost like $3,000 in potential benefits. Don't be like her - file now, worry about finding work later.
Last piece of advice - bookmark the ESD website and set up your online account properly. You'll be logging in every week for months potentially, so make sure you can access it easily. Write down your login info somewhere safe too.
Sofia Torres
One more thing - when you file, Washington ESD might put your claim in adjudication if there are any questions about your separation. Don't panic if that happens, it just means they need to verify some details with your employer.
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Sofia Torres
•It's just a review process to make sure you qualify for benefits. Takes a few weeks usually but you'll get paid retroactively if approved.
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Aisha Mahmood
•If your claim goes into adjudication and you need to talk to someone about it, that's another situation where Claimyr can help you reach an agent to check on status.
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Dmitry Sokolov
Bottom line: file now, don't wait another day. The process isn't that complicated once you start, and you'll kick yourself if you wait longer and lose even more weeks of benefits.
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Zara Mirza
•You're absolutely right. I'm going to file tonight. Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice!
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Ava Martinez
•Good luck! Feel free to come back here if you run into any issues with the process.
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