If you work in Washington State, you should be aware of your rights on the job. It doesn’t matter if you’re flipping burgers, stocking shelves, working construction, or in the office: the law is there to protect you. Washington has several laws in place to ensure workers are treated fairly, paid properly, and made safe. But many people do not know what the law actually says. Let’s break down what rights you have in plain language and how you can stand up for yourself as well as others if something goes wrong.
Everyone Deserves a Fair Wage
Nearly all employers in Washington State must pay at least the state minimum wage, which is $16.66 an hour in 2025. Some cities, such as Seattle or Tukwila, can have higher local minimum wages. You’re not allowed to be paid any less than this legally for the work that you do.
You Get Breaks During Your Shift
If you work longer than four hours, you’re entitled to a paid 10‑minute rest break. If you are working more than five hours, you also must receive at least a 30‑minute meal break. These provisions are in place to enable you to look after yourself and concentrate on the job.
You Get Paid Extra for Overtime
If you work more than 40 hours a week, you should be paid overtime at 1.5 times your standard hourly rate of pay. That means you earn time-and-a-half for every overtime hour that you work.”
You Get Paid Sick Leave
By Washington law, employers must give you 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 40 hours you have worked. This paid time helps you take care of yourself when you’re sick so that you can recover optimally.
You Are Entitled to Safe Working Conditions
You have the right to work in a place that is free from hazards. If you feel unsafe, you should be able to file a complaint and not be punished. This protection is administered by the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) in Washington.
You Cannot Be Discriminated Against or Harassed
Employers cannot discriminate or harass based on race, gender, age, disability, religion, and other protected categories. Additionally, you cannot be retaliated against for sharing an issue or inquiring about your wages.
At-Will Employment Has Limits
Washington is an “at‑will” employment state, which means employers can fire you at any time, for any reason — unless it’s illegal. You cannot be fired for using any of the rights included above.
Paid Family & Medical Leave
If you have a serious illness, a new baby, or are taking care of one of your family members, the state’s Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML) program provides up to 12 weeks of paid leave. You must have worked at least 820 hours for it to apply.
You Have Recourse If Your Rights Are Breached
If you think your rights have been violated in any way, you can file a Worker Rights Complaint with L&I. Most claims must be filed within three years, and you must file retaliation claims within 180 days.
You Have the Right to Organize
You have the right to join or form a union to help negotiate better terms for your work. You may also collaborate with your coworkers to get better wages and working conditions. Employers cannot retaliate against you for taking such actions.
Washington has strong worker protections, but it is on you to know and claim them. For more information or assistance, go to the Washington Labor and Industries worker’s Rights site or contact an experienced labor attorney.
