District of Columbia labor laws
The pay and leave rules District of Columbia employers most often ask about: posting salary ranges, paid sick leave, overtime and state leave programs.
Last verified November 2, 2026. Sources: does.dc.gov, does.dc.gov.
Pay transparency
Status: in effect since June 30, 2024. Who's covered: all employers.
min/max pay range in postings; healthcare benefits disclosed before first interview
Employers may not ask applicants about their pay history.
Paid sick leave
District of Columbia requires paid sick leave: 1 hr/37 hrs (100+ emp); 1/43 (25-99); 1/87 (<25), capped at 7 days (100+); 5 days (25-99); 3 days (<25). Coverage: all private employers.
DC is itself the local jurisdiction
Overtime
Non-exempt employees earn 1.5 times their regular rate for hours over 40 in a workweek under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
State paid leave and disability insurance
- Universal Paid Leave: employers 0.75%. Employer-only tax of 0.75% of total covered wages (no cap); not withheld from employees. Oct 1, 2026 changes reduced benefit weeks/max benefit but no rate change was adopted as of retrieval.
Frequently asked questions
- Does District of Columbia require salary ranges in job postings?
- Yes. min/max pay range in postings; healthcare benefits disclosed before first interview Coverage: all employers.
- Is paid sick leave required in District of Columbia?
- Yes. 1 hr/37 hrs (100+ emp); 1/43 (25-99); 1/87 (<25), up to 7 days (100+); 5 days (25-99); 3 days (<25).
- When is overtime due in District of Columbia?
- For non-exempt employees, at 1.5 times the regular rate after 40 hours in a workweek.