WAWashington final paycheck law
If you are fired in Washington, your final pay is due on or before the next regularly scheduled payday. If you quit, it is due on or before the next regularly scheduled payday.
On or before the nextif fired or laid off
On or before the nextif you quit
Per policyunused vacation
| If you | Your last check is due |
|---|---|
| were fired or laid off | On or before the next regularly scheduled payday |
| quit | On or before the next regularly scheduled payday |
| have unused vacation | It is paid if your employer's written policy says so. Vacation is a voluntary benefit. Payout only if the employer's policy or agreement provides it. |
| are paid late | None automatic. The employer may not withhold pay for unreturned equipment. |
| want to read the law | RCW 49.48.010checked October 29, 2026 |
When is my last check due? Washington calculator
What you are owedupdates as you type
What these words mean
- Final paycheck
- The last pay you are owed after a job ends: all hours worked and, in some states, your unused vacation.
- Late-pay penalty
- Extra money some states make an employer pay when your final check is late.
- Payout
- Being paid cash for paid time off you earned but never used.
- Wage complaint
- A free claim you file with your state labor office or the U.S. Department of Labor when you are not paid what the law requires.
Questions
I was fired in Washington. When do I get my last check?
On or before the next regularly scheduled payday.
I quit my job in Washington. When do I get my last check?
On or before the next regularly scheduled payday.
What if my employer pays my last check late in Washington?
None automatic. The employer may not withhold pay for unreturned equipment.
Will my unused vacation be in my last check in Washington?
Only if your employer's written policy or your contract says so. Vacation is a voluntary benefit. Payout only if the employer's policy or agreement provides it. See Washington PTO payout rules.
Can my employer keep my last check until I return my uniform or laptop?
No. Money you earned is yours. An employer can only take out what the law or a signed agreement allows. If the check is late, file a free wage complaint with the Washington labor office.