The bottom line is that UI taxes are just part of the cost of doing business in Washington. Factor it into your labor costs from day one and you won't be surprised by the bills.

One thing that's helped me manage UI costs is keeping detailed documentation of any employee performance issues or policy violations. If someone gets terminated for misconduct and files for unemployment, having good records can help you successfully contest the claim and protect your experience rating. Washington ESD puts the burden on employers to provide evidence, so don't wait until someone files to start documenting issues.

Just an update on my situation from January - make absolutely sure your employer indicates the REASON for the extension request. My first request was denied because my boss just asked for "more time" without explaining the specific construction delays. Second request with details about permit issues and contractor delays was approved immediately.

I went through this same thing with my construction job last fall. The key is timing - don't wait until the last minute! Have your boss submit the extension request at least a week before your current standby expires if possible. Also, in your case with flooring installation, make sure your employer mentions that this is due to project delays beyond their control (like the contract falling through you mentioned). ESD seems to approve extensions more easily when it's clearly due to circumstances outside the employer's control rather than just general "slow business." And definitely keep documentation of everything - save any texts or emails from your boss about the timeline changes.

One important thing to remember is that if you win and they rule in your favor, sometimes the employer can also appeal the decision to the Commissioner's Review Office. So even winning at the OAH level doesn't always mean the case is finished. However, the good news is that ESD will typically begin paying benefits after an OAH decision in your favor, even if the employer appeals. But be aware you could potentially have to repay them if the employer wins at a higher appeal level.

I just went through this exact same process about 6 weeks ago! The waiting period after the hearing is honestly the worst part because you just have no idea which way it's going to go. But based on what you're describing - having documented emails about safety concerns that were ignored - you actually sound like you have a really strong case. That's exactly the kind of "good cause" evidence that tends to win appeals for voluntary quits. A few things that might help while you wait: 1) Keep filing your weekly claims even while waiting for the decision (you won't get paid yet but it keeps your claim active), 2) The decision will show up in eServices usually a day or two before the paper copy arrives in the mail, and 3) Try not to read too much into how the hearing "felt" - I thought mine went terribly but I actually won! The timeline is usually 2-3 weeks like others mentioned. Hang in there and try to stay positive - documented safety concerns are one of the strongest reasons for a successful voluntary quit appeal.

This thread has been super helpful! I finally understand how Washington ESD calculates benefits. Thanks everyone!

Thanks for all the detailed explanations here! I'm in a similar situation to the original poster - just got laid off from my marketing job and trying to figure out my benefit amount before filing. From what I'm reading, it sounds like I need to look at my W-2 and add up each quarter's gross wages, then find the highest one and divide by 26. Is that right? Also, does anyone know if severance pay affects the calculation at all? I received a small severance package when I was let go.

Best of luck to everyone dealing with unemployment at any age. Remember that you've earned these benefits through your work history - don't let anyone make you feel otherwise.

Just wanted to add that I went through this exact situation last year at 66. Filed for Washington ESD benefits after being laid off from a manufacturing job I'd held for 15 years. The online application was straightforward, and I received my first payment within 4 weeks. Age was never an issue - they only cared that I met the work requirements and was actively seeking employment. Don't let anyone discourage you from filing just because you're older. You've paid into the system and deserve those benefits when you need them.