Final Paycheck Laws in Washington
When a Washington employer must pay your last paycheck if you are fired, laid off or quit, and whether unused vacation must be paid out.
Short answer: On or before the next regularly scheduled payday. Employers cannot hold the final paycheck because the employee has not returned keys, uniforms, tools or equipment. RCW 49.48.010
| Final paycheck if fired or laid off | On or before the next regularly scheduled payday. Employers cannot hold the final paycheck because the employee has not returned keys, uniforms, tools or equipment. State law says final wages are due at the end of the established pay period. Source: RCW 49.48.010 |
|---|---|
| Final paycheck if you quit | On or before the next regularly scheduled payday. Source: RCW 49.48.010 |
| Unused vacation / PTO payout | Not required. Vacation, personal holidays and severance are voluntary benefits the employer may choose to pay out. Agreed-upon benefits can be pursued in small claims court or with an attorney. Paid sick leave has separate rules. Source: L&I guidance |
Where to get help in Washington
More Washington employment law
- Minimum Wage in Washington
- Meal and Rest Break Laws in Washington
- Wrongful Termination in Washington
- Paid Sick Leave in Washington
- Non-Compete Agreements in Washington
- All Washington employment law rules
FAQ
When do I get my final paycheck if I'm fired in Washington?
On or before the next regularly scheduled payday. Employers cannot hold the final paycheck because the employee has not returned keys, uniforms, tools or equipment.
When do I get my final paycheck if I quit in Washington?
On or before the next regularly scheduled payday.
Does an employer have to pay out unused PTO in Washington?
Not required. Vacation, personal holidays and severance are voluntary benefits the employer may choose to pay out. Agreed-upon benefits can be pursued in small claims court or with an attorney. Paid sick leave has separate rules.
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.