Are you earning what you deserve in Washington State? With new updates in 2025, knowing your wage and hour rights is more crucial than ever. From minimum wage hikes to robust protections against wage theft, these laws ensure fair treatment for employees while holding employers accountable. Here’s everything you need to stay informed and empowered in the workplace.
1. Minimum Wage
Statewide Minimum Wage: $16.72 per hour (effective January 1, 2025). Adjusted annually for inflation based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Minors (14-15 years old): Employers may pay 85% of the minimum wage ($14.21 per hour).
2. Overtime Pay
Rate: Time and a half for hours worked over 40 in a workweek.
Exempt Employees: Certain workers are exempt from overtime, such as executive, administrative, professional, and some computer-related roles. The salary threshold for exemption in 2025 is $65,478.40 annually ($1,259 per week).
3. Meal and Rest Breaks
Rest Breaks: A paid 10-minute break for every 4 hours worked. Breaks should be scheduled near the middle of the work period whenever possible.
Meal Breaks: An unpaid 30-minute meal break for shifts over 5 hours. The break must occur between the 2nd and 5th hour of the shift.
Special Provisions: Workers in certain industries, like healthcare, may have additional protections or rules.
4. Paid Sick Leave
Accrual: Workers earn 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 40 hours worked.
Carryover: Up to 40 hours of unused sick leave can be carried over into the next year.
Usage: Sick leave can be used for personal health needs, a family member’s illness, or absences related to domestic violence.
Pay Frequency: Employers must pay wages at least once per month, and no later than 10 days after the end of the pay period.
Final Paychecks: Upon termination, employers must pay final wages on the next scheduled payday.
6. Record-Keeping Requirements
Employers must maintain records of employee hours worked, wages paid, and deductions for at least 3 years.
Employees have the right to request and access these records.
7. Wage Theft Protection
Employers are prohibited from withholding wages unlawfully. Employees who believe they have been underpaid can file a complaint with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I).
Penalties for wage theft include back pay, interest, and potential civil penalties.
8. Tipped Employees
Tipped workers must be paid the full minimum wage; tip credits are not allowed in Washington.
Tips belong to employees, and employers cannot use tips to offset wages or for other purposes.
9. Family and Medical Leave (PFML)
Eligible employees can take up to 12 weeks of paid family or medical leave per year. This increases to 16 weeks if both family and medical leave are used, or up to 18 weeks for pregnancy-related complications.
PFML benefits are funded by payroll contributions split between employees and employers.
10. Child Labor Laws
Working Hours for Minors:
Ages 14-15: Up to 3 hours on school days, 8 hours on non-school days; 16 hours per week during school weeks.
Ages 16-17: Up to 4 hours on school days, 8 hours on non-school days; 20 hours per week during school weeks.
Prohibited Work: Certain hazardous jobs are off-limits for minors, including operating heavy machinery and handling dangerous chemicals.
11. Retaliation Protections
Employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees who exercise their rights under wage and hour laws, such as filing a complaint or reporting violations.
Filing a Complaint
Workers who believe their rights have been violated can file a claim with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. Claims must typically be filed within 3 years of the violation.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
What is the minimum wage in Washington State for 2025?
The minimum wage in Washington State is $16.72 per hour as of January 1, 2025. Minors aged 14-15 can be paid 85% of this amount, or $14.21 per hour.
Are tipped employees paid differently in Washington?
No, Washington does not allow tip credits. Tipped employees must be paid the full minimum wage of $16.72 per hour, plus any tips they earn.
What are my rights if my employer denies me meal or rest breaks?
If your employer denies required meal or rest breaks, you may be entitled to additional compensation and can file a complaint with the Department of Labor & Industries.
How do I report wage theft in Washington State?
You can file a wage theft complaint with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. Employers found guilty may face penalties, including back pay and interest.
Am I entitled to overtime if I work more than 40 hours in a week?
Yes, non-exempt employees are entitled to overtime pay at 1.5 times their regular hourly rate for hours worked beyond 40 in a workweek.
How long do I have to file a wage and hour complaint?
You generally have 3 years from the date of the violation to file a complaint or lawsuit in Washington State.
Can my employer retaliate if I file a wage and hour complaint?
No, retaliation is illegal. If your employer retaliates against you, you can file an additional complaint for retaliation with L&I or consult an attorney.
How does paid sick leave work in Washington?
Employees earn 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 40 hours worked. You can carry over up to 40 hours of unused leave into the next year.
By staying informed about Washington State’s wage and hour laws, you can better protect your rights and ensure fair treatment at work. If you have questions or concerns, contact the Department of Labor & Industries or seek legal advice for assistance.
