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Washington Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML)

Washington State's Paid Family and Medical Leave program provides paid time off for workers who need to care for a family member with a serious health condition, bond with a new child, or address certain military-connected events. Jointly funded by employer and employee payroll contributions.

Up to 12 weeks of family leave, 12 weeks of medical leave, or up to 16-18 weeks combined (with additional 2 weeks for pregnancy complications). Uses a progressive wage replacement formula: up to 90% of wages for lower earners, decreasing for higher earners, with a maximum weekly benefit of $1,647 in 2026. Includes job protection for covered employees when the employer has 25+ employees and the worker has been employed at least 180 days under 2026 rules. Both employers and employees contribute to funding through payroll premiums.

Services

Up to 12 weeks of family leave, 12 weeks of medical leave, or up to 16-18 weeks combined (with additional 2 weeks for pregnancy complications). Uses a progressive wage replacement formula: up to 90% of wages for lower earners, decreasing for higher earners, with a maximum weekly benefit of $1,647 in 2026. Includes job protection for covered employees when the employer has 25+ employees and the worker has been employed at least 180 days under 2026 rules. Both employers and employees contribute to funding through payroll premiums.

How to apply

Use the official program page for application details: official program page.

  • fmla (companion): WA PFML can run concurrently with FMLA leave