Washington labor laws
The pay and leave rules Washington employers most often ask about: posting salary ranges, paid sick leave, overtime and state leave programs.
Last verified November 2, 2026. Sources: lni.wa.gov, lni.wa.gov.
RequiredPay ranges in job ads
YesStatewide paid sick leave
YesState paid leave or disability program
$17.13Minimum wage
Pay transparency
Status: in effect since January 1, 2023. Who's covered: 15+ employees.
wage scale/salary range and benefits in postings; 5-day cure period (2025 amendment)
Employers may not ask applicants about their pay history.
Paid sick leave
Washington requires paid sick leave: 1 hour per 40 hours worked, capped at no annual use cap; 40 hr carryover cap. Coverage: all employers.
Seattle and Tacoma ordinances
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
- Paid Family and Medical Leave: employees contribute 0.807% of wages, employers 0.323%. 2026 total 1.13%: employee 71.43%, employer 28.57%. Employers with <50 employees owe no employer share. 2027 total 1.2%: employee 70.7%, employer 29.3% (ESD).
Frequently asked questions
- Does Washington require salary ranges in job postings?
- Yes. wage scale/salary range and benefits in postings; 5-day cure period (2025 amendment) Coverage: 15+ employees.
- Is paid sick leave required in Washington?
- Yes. 1 hour per 40 hours worked, up to no annual use cap; 40 hr carryover cap.
- When is overtime due in Washington?
- For non-exempt employees, at 1.5 times the regular rate after 40 hours in a workweek.