Washington Minimum Wage (2025)
Current minimum wage information for Washington with latest regulations and requirements.
Quick Facts
Basic Minimum Rate
Premium Pay
Federal Override
The Washington minimum wage for 2025 is set at $16.66 per hour.
For tipped employees in Washington, the minimum cash wage is $16.66 per hour. Washington does not allow employers to take a tip credit against minimum wage. This means tipped workers like servers, bartenders, and hotel staff must be paid the full minimum wage regardless of tips received. Washington does not allow a tipped wage. All workers must be paid the full state minimum regardless of tips. Understanding the tipped minimum wage is essential for both employers and workers in the service industry.
Washington allows a youth minimum wage of $14.16 per hour under specific conditions. Workers aged 14–15 may be paid 85% of the minimum wage, currently $14.16/hour. This reduced training wage helps employers create entry-level opportunities while ensuring young workers receive fair compensation during their initial employment period.
In addition to the base minimum wage, Washington has specific overtime and premium pay requirements. Weekly overtime is required after 40 hours. Employers must carefully track working hours to ensure compliance with these regulations.
Important considerations for Washington's minimum wage law include: Adjusted annually. Comp time alternative allowed. Employers should consult with legal counsel to ensure full compliance with these provisions.
For the most current and authoritative information on Washington's minimum wage laws and regulations, employers and workers should consult the official Washington labor department website or legal counsel. Understanding your rights and obligations regarding minimum wage, tipped wages, and youth employment is essential for both employers and employees.
Minimum Wage Rates for 2025
Tipped Employee Minimum Wage
Youth & Training Wage
Workers aged 14–15 may be paid 85% of the minimum wage, currently $14.16/hour.
Premium Pay Rules
| Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Weekly | 40 |
Notes & Exceptions
Adjusted annually. Comp time alternative allowed.
Related Labor Laws in Washington
Details
Employees earn 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 40 hours worked with no cap on accrual. Employers may limit use to 40 hours per year.
Applies To
All employers regardless of size.
Details
30-minute meal break for shifts over 5 hours, 10-minute rest break for every 4 hours worked.
Applies To
Most non-exempt employees.
Details
Federal law does not dictate pay frequency, but most states require employers to establish and maintain regular paydays. Check with state labor department for any new regulations.
Applies To
All employers.
Details
State follows the general practice of providing final paychecks by the next scheduled payday. Check with state labor department for any specific requirements.
Applies To
All employers.
Details
State follows the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) overtime provisions without additional requirements.
Applies To
Most non-exempt employees.