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Washington Legal Holidays Laws

A legal holiday is a day the federal or state government sets aside to commemorate an event, a historical figure, or a traditional holiday. Washington legal holidays are like federally recognized holidays (some states have their own unique days).

Federal and State Legal Holiday Laws

Washington state labor laws do not require employers to offer paid time off on holidays, nor do they entitle workers to premium holiday wages. But most federal and state government workers and some government contractors need holiday pay and paid time off. Government workers usually get a "work holiday" on an adjacent workday if a legal holiday falls on a Sunday.

Washington's legal holiday laws are like those of most other states. While state law doesn't force employers in the private sector to offer holiday benefits, premium pay, or paid holidays, companies may offer them as part of a compensation package. Non-exempt, salaried workers are usually granted paid time off on holidays.

What Are Washington's Legal Holidays?

The following days are legal holidays in Washington:

  • New Year's Day
  • Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday
  • President's Day
  • Memorial Day
  • Juneteenth
  • Independence Day
  • Labor Day
  • Veterans Day
  • Thanksgiving Day
  • Friday following the fourth Thursday of November to recognize Native American Heritage Day
  • Christmas Day

Columbus Day is not a state holiday in Washington state. Washington's birthday is not a state holiday in Washington state. But it is a federal holiday.

Do You Get Paid Overtime Working on a Holiday in the State of Washington?

No. Suppose you are scheduled to work on a holiday during the calendar year. In that case, you are not required to get paid overtime. You can get overtime pay if you work more than 40 hours during that workweek.

Some employers can pay workers a particular holiday wage, but it is not required.

Does Washington Offer Holiday Leave?

No. But if you are already on Family and Medical Leave (FMLA) to take care of yourself or a qualified family member, then you would also have that holiday off. If you work, you get your regular rate in wages.

Talk To a Washington Employment Lawyer

Employers that fail to meet their obligations to employees under state or federal labor laws or employment law (or in compliance with the terms of your contract) may violate laws. If you have questions about vacation leave, holiday leave, or legal holidays, talk to a Washington labor lawyer.

Note: State laws can change. Contact a Washington employment attorney to verify the state law(s) you are researching.

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