Washington Labor and Employment FAQs

• 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
• Q: Is It Legal To Require Direct Deposit?
  A: Yes, it is legal to require direct deposit, as long as there is no cost to the employee.
• Q: What Deductions May My Employer Make From My Paycheck?
  A: In general, deductions from wages are lawful only under the following conditions: The employer is required to do so by law ­ for example, federal and state … More
• Q: What Are The Rest-Break And Meal-Period Requirements?
  A: unpaid time, and which begins no less than two hours nor more than five hours from the beginning of the shift. If workers are required to remain on duty during the … More
• Q: If I Report To Work And My Employer Sends Me Home Because Of A Lack Of Work, Must I Be Paid For Showing Up For Work?
  A: There is no requirement for "show­up" pay. Employees must be paid for actual hours worked.
• Q: My Employer Told Me To Report To Work At A Certain Time But Not To Clock In Until It Gets Busy. Is It Legal To Make Me Wait Around Without Pay?
  A: No, it is not legal to require you to wait on the premises. You must be paid for all "hours worked," which includes time you are required to be on the premises at the … More
• Q: How Soon Does An Employer Have To Give An Employee A Final Paycheck?
  A: Termination wages are due to the employee on the next regularly scheduled payday regardless of whether the employee quit or was fired.
• Q: Can An Employer Withhold A Final Paycheck Until An Employee Turns In Keys Or Uniforms?
  A: Legally, no, an employer may not withhold a final check. However, in order to avoid disputes or disruptions in pay, workers are advised to turn in keys, uniforms, … More
• Q: I Didnt Get My Final Paycheck. What Can I Do?
  A: The first thing to do is ask the employer why you haven't received your final check. If the employer refuses to give you your final check, you may choose one of three … More
• Q: What Happens After I File A Wage Claim With L&I?
  A: Your wage claim will be reviewed for completeness and to make sure L&I has jurisdiction. You may be asked to provide additional information and/or evidence to support … More
• Q: Am I Entitled To Receive Damages/Penalties From My Employer For Failing To Pay Me As Required Upon Termination?
  A: L&I cannot assess penalties for failure to pay final wages. However, if you have to take legal action to get your wages, you may file in civil court for double damages.

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