Washington Labor and Employment FAQs

• Q: What is the minimum wage in Washington?
  A: L&I enforces the state's minimum wage law. The minimum wage is $8.55 per hour. The state's minimum wage is recalculated each year in September as a result of an … More
• Q: My Employer Has Not Paid Me All The Commissions I Earned At My Previous Job. What Can I Do?
  A: If you were not paid minimum wage and overtime correctly for the hours you worked, you may be able to file a wage claim through L&I. However, L&I has no jurisdiction … More
• Q: Is An Employer Required To Pay Time And One-Half For Working On A Holiday?
  A: Overtime or premium pay is not required for working on holidays or weekends unless those hours are in excess of 40 for the workweek. Holiday pay is a benefit that may … More
• Q: Am I Entitled To Be Paid For Unused Vacation Time Or Receive Severance Pay Upon Termination?
  A: Vacation pay, holiday pay, sick leave, and severance pay are considered benefits and may be paid based on the employer's policies. There is no requirement in state law … More
• Q: What Is The Difference Between State And Federal Minimum Wage?
  A: Most Washington employers are subject to both federal and state minimum wage and overtime laws. The effect of this dual coverage is that the employer must follow the … More
• Q: When Is Overtime Pay Required Under Washington Law?
  A: Most employees are entitled to be paid time and one­half their regular rate of pay for any time worked over 40 hours in a seven­day workweek. There are some … More
• Q: How Frequently Must Employees Be Paid?
  A: Employers must pay employees on regular established paydays at no longer than monthly intervals.
• Q: Is There A Limit To The Number Of Hours An Employer Can Require You To Work?
  A: There are no laws limiting the number of hours adult employees may be required to work. (See "Overtime Pay" section for information about working more than 40 hours in … More
• Q: My Employer Promised A Raise After Six Months But I Havent Received It. Do I Have Any Recourse?
  A: An employer must pay the agreed wage until such time that a new rate is agreed upon. Once you and your employer have specifically discussed and agreed upon a new rate, … More
• Q: Can A Supervisor Change The Hours Recorded On A Timecard?
  A: Employers must pay employees for all hours worked. It is not legal for a supervisor to change your timecard if you have worked the hours. If you suspect this is … More

Click here to view general Labor and Employment FAQs