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Unemployment Insurance Employer Registration: Washington, D.C. restaurant guide

Department of Employment Services (DOES)

What it is

Registers you to file quarterly wage reports and pay DC unemployment insurance tax.

When a restaurant needs it

As soon as one or more employees perform services in DC, whether full-time, part-time or temporary.

How to apply

Choose 'Register for a new Account' on the DOES Employer Self-Service Portal (ESSP).

Documents you’ll need

FEIN
Business legal name and DC address
Date of first wages paid
Officer/owner details

Fee

Varies — see DOES

Processing time

Varies

Renewal

Quarterly wage reports

Who files

The owner or a payroll provider/third-party agent can register.

Good to know

DC Paid Family Leave is a separate DOES program; check its employer requirements when you set up payroll.

Official source

DOES: employer service portal · ESSP login and registration

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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.