Meal and Rest Break Laws in Washington
Whether Washington law requires meal or rest breaks for adult employees.
Short answer: Rest break: a paid 10-minute break for every 4 hours worked, with no more than 3 hours worked without a break. Meal break: at least 30 minutes for shifts over 5 hours, starting between the 2nd and 5th hour; WAC 296-126-092
| Meal and rest breaks | Rest break: a paid 10-minute break for every 4 hours worked, with no more than 3 hours worked without a break. Meal break: at least 30 minutes for shifts over 5 hours, starting between the 2nd and 5th hour; unpaid only if the employee is completely free of duties. Additional meal periods apply to shifts running more than 3 hours past schedule. Employees may waive the meal break by agreement with the employer. Different rules apply to minors, agricultural workers and some health care workers. Source: WAC 296-126-092 |
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Where to get help in Washington
More Washington employment law
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FAQ
Are breaks required by law in Washington?
Rest break: a paid 10-minute break for every 4 hours worked, with no more than 3 hours worked without a break. Meal break: at least 30 minutes for shifts over 5 hours, starting between the 2nd and 5th hour; unpaid only if the employee is completely free of duties. Additional meal periods apply to shifts running more than 3 hours past schedule. Employees may waive the meal break by agreement with the employer. Different rules apply to minors, agricultural workers and some health care workers.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.