Washington State Paid Family and Medical Leave

To qualify for Washington State Paid Family and Medical Leave, you must have worked at least 820 hours in the 12 months before your leave starts. This includes full-time, part-time, temporary, or seasonal work.

You can take paid leave for:

• Your own serious health condition (like a major illness, injury, or mental health issue).
• Caring for a family member with a serious health condition.
• Bonding with a new child (birth, adoption, or foster care).
• Military-related reasons (like caring for a family member deploying or returning from overseas).

You may take up to 12 weeks of leave in a year for one type. If you have two qualifying events in the same year, you can take up to 16 weeks. If you have a pregnancy-related health issue, you may get up to 18 weeks.

You get up to 90% of your weekly pay, with a maximum of $1,647 per week in 2026. You must apply within 30 days of your qualifying event. If you can plan ahead, notify your employer at least 30 days before taking leave.

Starting in 2026, if you work for a company with 25+ employees and have worked there for at least 6 months, your job is likely protected while you’re on leave. But employers can deny job restoration if you’re in the top 10% of paid employees in their area or if your job no longer exists.

Some workers are not eligible: federal employees, tribal business workers, self-employed people (unless they opt in), and those covered by employer-approved voluntary plans.

This is a summary only — not legal advice. Consult a disability rights attorney for guidance on your specific situation.