How to File Quarterly Unemployment Returns for Washington State
All businesses that hire employees in Washington State are required to file quarterly unemployment tax returns. Businesses that incorporate in Washington State indicate on the Master Business Application form the number of employees the business will have and the date when the first payroll will be made. Existing businesses that initially indicated they would not have employees but later decided to hire, will need to file a new Master Business Application indicating the number of employees and the date of the first payroll.
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Instructions
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Gather together the amount of wages paid by your business during the quarter and decide which of the three filing methods offered by the Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD) is right for your business.
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Select the Employer Account Management Services (EAMS) if you have multiple business sites and if you desire to pay by check. You are required to register to use this service; however, it offers the most services of the three methods and allows you to complete the entire process online, with the exception of sending in a check, which is done using U.S. mail.
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Choose the UI Fast Tax method if you want to download software to your computer and retain an electronic version of your reports. In using the EAMS method, you will need to print out a hard copy of reports or maintain access to the ESD's website. You will also be able to pay by electronic check or electronic funds transfer using this method.
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Select the UI Web Tax method if you are filing a "no-payroll report" or if you have only a small number of employees. This method also allows for electronic payments but does not offer the many features of the EAMS method or the limited features of the Fast Tax method. Sometimes, a business starts out with employees then, for whatever reason, decides not to have employees. Such businesses will need to file the "no-payroll report."
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Pay your taxes when you file your report. Be aware that penalties and interest are imposed for not paying your unemployment taxes on time.
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Tips & Warnings
Each of the three methods offers detailed instructions and menus which are easily accessible and easy to follow. However, you can request a paper report and file your taxes manually by requesting the necessary forms via email at taxforms@esd.wa.gov or by calling 360-902-0916.
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