How to pay unemployment tax - Washington ESD quarterly filing confusion

Thanks! So it's not on ALL wages, just up to that $62,500 limit per person? That makes more sense.

Exactly. And the rate varies based on your experience rating. New employers usually start around 2.7% but it can go up or down based on your claim history.

That's exactly what I'm dealing with! Did you ever get it sorted out?

yeah eventually but i had to clear my cache like 5 times and use a different browser. chrome worked better than safari for me

Never heard of that before. Is it legitimate? I'm desperate enough to try anything at this point.

Yeah it's real. They basically handle the waiting and calling for you. I was skeptical too but it actually worked. Much better than spending my whole day redialing.

Interesting, I might try that too. I've been trying to reach them about a different issue and it's impossible.

Do I need to report hours worked too? I thought it was just wages.

Yes, Washington ESD requires total hours worked per quarter for each employee. It's on the same form as the wage reporting.

Every state has issues with their unemployment systems. At least Washington's works most of the time.

I guess you're right. Still frustrating when you're trying to stay compliant and the system fights you.

Good to know. I'll definitely screenshot everything.

I learned that the hard way. Had to prove I filed on time and luckily I saved the confirmation page.

No, you only pay on actual wages paid during each quarter. If they didn't work and you didn't pay them, there's no tax for that quarter.

That makes sense. Thanks for clarifying.

You can appeal your experience rating if you think it's incorrect. You'd need to show that the claim was improper or that you weren't the base period employer.

How do I do that? Is there a form or do I just call?

There should be instructions on your rate notice. Usually it's a written appeal with supporting documentation.

How long did the paper filing take?

Like 6 weeks to process. And I was paranoid the whole time that it got lost in the mail.

I'll try that tonight. Thanks!

Yeah I noticed that too. Lunch time is the worst for their website.

Yes, there are late filing penalties and interest charges. The penalty is usually a percentage of the tax due, plus interest that accrues daily.

Ugh that's what I was afraid of. Guess I need to get this done ASAP.

That's encouraging. I think I'm going to try it too.

How much does it cost?

It's worth it compared to losing business hours trying to call them yourself. Much more efficient.

Good point. I'm dealing with all of those for the first time as a new employer.

Yeah it's a lot to keep track of when you're starting out. Each one has different rates and filing requirements.

Where do I find the current year's wage base?

It's on the Washington ESD employer website. They usually post the new rates in December for the following year.

That's reassuring. I hope I figure it out soon.

You will. And if you get stuck, there are people here who can help point you in the right direction.

Good reminder. I'll double-check that in my account.

Yeah I missed a rate notice once because I forgot to update my address after moving offices.

Good luck! Feel free to post back if you run into any issues.

And remember the Claimyr option if you need to actually talk to someone at Washington ESD. Sometimes it's worth it to get direct answers.