UI Audit Response Guide · WA
Washington UI audit response
Washington has strong employer requirements; audits go faster when proof is tight and tied to the payment trail.
Not legal advice. This is administrative guidance for organizing records and responding clearly.
Washington “what’s different” (ESD expectations)
Washington has strong employer requirements and a focus on verifiable records. The strongest responses are:
- totals-first,
- organized proof per payee,
- and a short reconciliation note.
What to expect (Washington)
- A notice identifying the period and record types requested.
- Requests emphasizing relationship facts and supporting documentation.
- Follow-ups when documentation is incomplete or totals can’t be verified quickly.
What to pull first (Washington checklist)
A) Roster + totals
- Payee roster for the audit period: dates, totals, purpose label.
- Totals summary that ties to bank/processor exports.
B) Payment trail
- Bank statements and/or processor exports.
- Check/ACH detail if used.
C) Proof per payee
- W-9 (if applicable)
- Invoices
- Scope documentation (work orders / engagement emails / accepted proposal)
- Approvals (if used)
- Work evidence for repeat relationships (deliverables, milestones, communications)
Audit-ready tip
For payees who are legitimate businesses, include what you already have that supports that (business info, invoices, project deliverables). Keep it tidy and relevant.
Sources
Disclaimer
This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, legal or tax advice. If you have any legal or tax questions regarding this content or related issues, then you should consult with your professional legal or tax advisor.