WAWashington pay rules
Minimum wage $17.13, going up to $17.73 on January 1, 2027. Overtime after 40 hours in a week. If you are fired, your last check is due on or before the next regularly scheduled payday.
Washington minimum wage$17.13 now, $17.73 from January 1, 2027
Washington overtime lawsWeekly overtime after 40 hours
Washington final paycheck lawFired: on or before the next regularly scheduled payday
Washington PTO payout lawDepends on written policy
| Rule | Washington | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum wage | $17.13 an hour since January 1, 2026. Going up to $17.73 on January 1, 2027. Seattle, SeaTac, Tukwila and other cities set higher rates. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
| Cash pay if you get tips | $17.13, the full minimum wage, with tips on top. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
| Overtime | 1.5x after 40 hours in a work week. No daily overtime. | RCW 49.46.130checked October 29, 2026 |
| Last check if fired | On or before the next regularly scheduled payday | RCW 49.48.010checked October 29, 2026 |
| Last check if you quit | On or before the next regularly scheduled payday | RCW 49.48.010checked October 29, 2026 |
| If the last check is late | None automatic. The employer may not withhold pay for unreturned equipment. | RCW 49.48.010checked October 29, 2026 |
| Unused vacation when you leave | Depends on your employer's written policy. Vacation is a voluntary benefit. Payout only if the employer's policy or agreement provides it. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
| Meal break | 30-minute meal period for work over 5 consecutive hours, taken 2 to 5 hours into the shift. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
| Rest break | Paid 10-minute rest period for each 4 hours. No more than 3 hours without a rest period. | read the rulechecked October 29, 2026 |
These rules cover the whole state. Cities and industries with their own rules are noted in the table. Checked October 29, 2026. Next check: January 1, 2027.