Does previous employer pay for unemployment benefits in Washington?

That makes sense! So it's like a big pool of money that all employers contribute to?

Exactly! It's called the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund and it's managed by Washington ESD.

Not directly - all employers in Washington pay into a shared fund. Your specific employer isn't writing you a check each week.

oh ok that makes more sense

How much does that cost? I'm already tight on money waiting for my benefits to start.

It's worth it if you really need to talk to someone at Washington ESD. Way better than wasting your whole day trying to get through.

So companies that lay people off a lot have to pay more? That seems fair.

Yes, it's designed to encourage stable employment. Companies with low turnover pay less.

No, it shouldn't affect your claim. The unemployment fund is separate from individual companies. Even if your employer goes bankrupt, your benefits come from the state fund.

good to know, thanks!

Yes, employers can contest unemployment claims if they believe the separation wasn't eligible (like if they think you were fired for misconduct). This is why some claims go into adjudication.

Oh no, I hope they don't contest mine. I was just laid off due to lack of work.

If it was a true layoff due to lack of work, you should be fine. Employers usually only contest when they think someone quit or was fired for cause.

chill out dude, at least we have some safety net

Easy to say when you're not the one struggling to feed your family while waiting for adjudication!

Thanks for the detailed explanation! This helps me understand the whole system better.

I work in payroll and can confirm this is accurate. Most employees don't realize there are two separate taxes.

Not necessarily - it depends on their payroll size and experience rating. A small business with high turnover might pay more per employee than a large stable company.

interesting, never thought about it that way

That's terrible! People shouldn't have to worry about their employer fighting their claim when they legitimately need help.

I agree, but from a business perspective, those taxes can add up quickly for companies with high turnover.

Benefits are based on your earnings history, so part-time workers typically get lower weekly benefit amounts. But they're still eligible if they meet the minimum earnings requirements.

makes sense, thanks

How does that service work exactly? Do you give them your personal info?

They handle the calling process for you - you don't have to give them your claim details. Check out their demo video, it shows the whole process.

The system isn't perfect, but it does provide a safety net for millions of workers. The requirements exist to prevent fraud and ensure benefits go to those who are genuinely unemployed through no fault of their own.

I guess you're right, just frustrating when you're the one needing help

Same here! I was worried they might be mad about having to pay for my benefits directly.

It's a common misconception. The pooled system protects both employers and employees.

Great analogy! Never thought of it as insurance before but that's exactly what it is.

Exactly - and like any insurance, there are eligibility requirements and procedures to follow.

Generally no - independent contractors don't have employers paying into the system for them. However, Washington state has been expanding coverage for some gig workers in recent years.

good to know, thanks for the info

Right? I learned so much from this thread. Really appreciate everyone sharing their knowledge.

This is why I love this forum - people actually help each other understand these confusing systems.

I might have to try that. Been trying to get through for days to ask about my adjudication status.

Perfect use case for it - adjudication questions are exactly what you need to talk to an actual person about.

Same! Really glad I asked this question. The community here is awesome.

Happy to help! Understanding how the system works makes dealing with Washington ESD much less stressful.