Washington ESD benefits affected by 2025 federal unemployment tax rate changes?

Oh okay, so my $485 weekly benefit won't change because of the federal tax rate? That's a relief.

Right, your benefit amount is locked in when your claim is established. The FUTA rate mainly affects the trust fund balance.

I had the same problem calling Washington ESD until I found Claimyr. It's a service that helps you get through to ESD agents - check out claimyr.com and their demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Way easier than sitting on hold forever.

Thanks! I'll definitely look into that. I've wasted so many hours trying to call.

The federal rate for 2025 is 6% on the first $7,000 of wages, but most employers get a credit that brings it down to 0.6% if the state has no outstanding federal loans.

That's good news for employers I guess. Does that mean our benefits are more secure?

Generally yes - a healthy trust fund means less pressure to cut benefits or raise eligibility requirements.

FUTA is what employers pay to fund the unemployment system. You as a claimant don't pay FUTA, but you might owe income tax on your benefits depending on your total income.

Ah got it, thanks for clarifying!

You're probably right - many states did raise their State Unemployment Tax (SUTA) rates after depleting trust funds during the pandemic. Federal FUTA has been pretty stable.

Yeah Washington ESD did adjust some employer rates based on experience ratings and trust fund needs.

Same here! The job search requirements are stressful enough without worrying about benefit changes.

Don't worry - these tax rate discussions usually don't affect current claimants. Your benefits are determined when you file your initial claim.

Actually I used Claimyr last month and got connected to an ESD agent in like 10 minutes. Saved me hours of calling and redialing.

Really? I might have to try that. I've been trying to get clarification on my job search log for weeks.

Good point! I forgot to have taxes withheld and ended up owing at tax time.

Washington state doesn't have income tax so at least we don't worry about that part.

Correct. FUTA funds the federal portion of the UI system but your Washington ESD benefits come from state taxes and are calculated based on your wage history.

Thanks for the clear explanation! I was getting worried for nothing.

Extended benefits programs like EB are triggered by state unemployment rates, not tax rates. Though trust fund health can influence policy decisions about extensions.

Good to know! I'm hoping I find work before needing any extensions anyway.

Appreciate the confirmation from someone who deals with this professionally!

Yeah it's nice to get facts instead of speculation on these tax questions.

I finally got through using Claimyr after weeks of failed attempts. They have this whole system for getting past the busy signals - check out their video demo if you're curious.

At this point I'm willing to try anything to reach a real person at ESD.