Does the company pay for unemployment benefits in Washington state?

So my employer can't refuse to let me get benefits because they don't want to pay?

Exactly! They already paid their taxes. They can contest your claim if they think you don't qualify, but they can't stop you from filing.

That's messed up! So they make it harder for people who legitimately need help?

Unfortunately yes. Some employers will contest everything hoping people won't appeal or will give up.

Have you tried using Claimyr? I found out about it from someone on Reddit. It's at claimyr.com and they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. They help you get through to actual Washington ESD agents.

Never heard of that. Does it actually work?

Worked for me! Got through in like 20 minutes after trying for weeks on my own.

While I understand the frustration, the system does work for most people who qualify. The key is understanding your rights.

Easy to say when you're not the one fighting a bogus contest from your employer.

Correct. If you were laid off through no fault of your own, you should qualify. They can provide information to Washington ESD but can't veto your claim.

That's a relief. I was worried they could somehow block it.

Your boss is wrong or lying. You have the right to file for unemployment if you qualify. Don't let them intimidate you.

thanks i thought that sounded fishy

Fair? Tell that to someone whose legitimate claim gets contested by a vindictive employer.

That's why we have the appeal process. Yes it's frustrating but the system has checks and balances.

That's actually illegal interference with unemployment benefits. Companies can't discourage eligible workers from filing.

Wish I had known that then. I waited two weeks before filing because of what they said.

Yes, it's required. All employers pay unemployment insurance taxes based on their payroll. It's like any other insurance system - everyone pays in, those who need benefits get them.

That makes sense. I thought it was more like workers comp where you only pay if you have claims.

Makes sense. I work in landscaping and we get laid off every winter.

Exactly, so landscaping companies pay higher UI tax rates to account for that predictable seasonality.

General fund. All employer taxes go into one big pool that Washington ESD manages. Your benefits come from that pool, not directly from your former employer.

Thanks, that clears it up. So my employer already paid their part regardless of whether I file or not.

Good to know! I was freaking out when I got the notice about my employer responding to my claim.

Yeah, Washington ESD investigates and makes the decision based on facts, not just what the employer says.

Yes, there are caps. The rates are published annually by Washington ESD. Even the highest-risk employers have a maximum rate they can be charged.

That's probably why some employers fight claims even when they know they'll lose - they're already at the cap anyway.

Same here! I feel way more confident about filing now.

right? i was scared my boss would get mad but now i know its not even their money

How much does that cost though?

I'd rather pay a little to actually talk to someone than waste weeks trying to get through on my own. The peace of mind was worth it.

Exactly what I needed to hear. Filing my claim tonight!

Good luck! Remember to keep track of your job search activities for the weekly claims.