Washington Final Paycheck Laws
Calculate when final wages are due under Washington law. Enter the termination details below.
Final Paycheck Deadline Calculator
Find out exactly when the final paycheck is due based on state law.
Washington Law
End of next regular pay period
Washington does not require immediate payment of final wages upon termination. All wages earned must be paid by the end of the next regular pay period. This applies whether the employee quits, is fired, or is laid off.
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Washington Final Paycheck Requirements
| Scenario | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Employee is fired or laid off | End of next regular pay period |
| Employee quits with notice | End of next regular pay period |
| Employee quits without notice | End of next regular pay period |
| PTO/Vacation payout required? | No / depends on policy |
Penalties
Washington does not have specific statutory penalties for late final paychecks. However, employees may still file wage claims and employers could face other consequences.
PTO/Vacation Payout
Washington does not have a 'use it or lose it' prohibition, so employers can require employees to forfeit unused vacation. However, if your policy promises payout at separation, you must honor that commitment. Distinguish vacation from paid sick leave, which has separate rules.
Additional Notes
Washington does not require immediate payment of final wages upon termination. All wages earned must be paid by the end of the next regular pay period. This applies whether the employee quits, is fired, or is laid off.
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