Washington Wage and Hour Laws

The state of Washington has laws in place for employee wages. Washington employers must follow federal and state minimum wage and overtime laws. The article below answers important questions about paying employees under Washington state law. This includes minimum wages, overtime pay, and the frequency and manner of payday requirements during a pay period.

Washington Wages and Hours Laws: Frequently Asked Questions

The laws in the state of Washington guarantee workers one of the highest minimum pay rates in the nation. For information on other financial topics, check out FindLaw’s Wage and Hour Law section.

How often does an employer have to meet payday requirements?

Washington employers must pay their hourly employees at least once a month. Workers who have their paychecks bounce for insufficient funds within 30 days can file a Workplace Rights Complaint. The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries can help recover fees as well as investigate complaints for unpaid wages or workers’ rights violations. If you have a complaint about discrimination, like national origin or sexual orientation, you can file a civil lawsuit.

What method of payments can a Washington employer use?

An employer can pay a worker by:

• Cash
• Check
• Direct deposit
• Prepaid payroll card

The Department of Labor and Industries and Washington labor laws do not allow employers to impose fees or costs on their workers when they receive paychecks.

What is the minimum wage in Washington?

As of January 1, 2025, Washington’s minimum wage is $16.66 per hour. This stood as the highest minimum wage in the United States when enacted.

Cities can have their own minimum rate of pay per hour. Seattle’s minimum wage increased to $20.76 at the start of 2025. This applies to all workers, regardless of whether they can accept tips. Tips don’t count toward the minimum hourly rate.

When is an employee entitled to overtime pay in Washington?

Hourly rate employees performing more than 40 hours of work in a seven-day work week must be paid overtime. Overtime is one and a half times their regular rate. Employers can choose to pay more for overtime if they wish.

Are there penalties for failing to follow payday laws in Washington State?

Yes. Failure to pay the legal minimum wage and other violations may result in the payment of owed back wages. Employees can take civil action if necessary. In some cases, criminal action by non-payment can result in an employer facing criminal charges and fines.

Are there workers who aren’t eligible for overtime pay?

Not all hourly wage employees get overtime. Here are some examples:

• Agricultural or horticultural workers
• Babysitters
• Elected officials
• Farm or ranch workers
• Forest protection workers
• Independent contractors
• Inmate, resident, or patient of any state, county, or municipal correctional, detention, treatment, or rehab institution.
• Motion picture projectionists under a collective bargaining agreement or other contract
• Newspaper carriers
• Newspaper vendors
• On-call workers
• Salaried workers
• Seaman
• Seasonal employees working less than 14 days a year at agricultural fairs
• Workers who also live in the residence of their employment
• Volunteers
• Youth camps

These workers might have unpaid leave or paid time off (PTO) as a form of compensation.

Does Washington have paid sick leave?

Eligible employees can use the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) to take time off to help a family member or themselves through a healthcare condition. Washington state law requires employers to provide paid family and medical leave, which is different than federal law.

Washington state employees get paid sick leave at their hourly rate of pay, which could be the minimum wage rate or their premium rate. For salaried employees, their hourly rate is used.

Are employees in Washington guaranteed meal breaks?

If more than five hours are worked in a shift, workers must be allowed at least a 30-minute meal period. Workers must be at least two hours into the shift before their meal time can start. It also cannot start more than five hours after the beginning of the shift.

How does an employee file a complaint in Washington?

Complaints for transgressions such as unpaid wages or workers’ rights violations can be filed online with the Washington Department of State. If you have a complaint about discrimination, like national origin or sexual orientation, you can file a civil lawsuit. For violations of workplace safety regulations, contact a local Washington Occupational Safety and Health Administration office.

Washington Wage and Hour Laws: Related Resources

• Washington State Department of Labor & Industries
• Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
• Washington Minimum Wage Laws (RCW 49.46.020)

Need Help With Washington Wage and Hour Laws? Speak With an Attorney

Washington employers are required to follow all applicable employment laws. If you have questions about wage and hour laws in Washington, consider consulting with an employment law attorney. They can explain the effects that these laws have on your specific situation, make sure you get your final paychecks, and go over your workers’ compensation and medical benefits.