Understanding Minimum Wage in Washington State:
Workers and employers in Washington state must be familiar with the current minimum wage regulations. As of January 1, 2024, most employers are required to pay most of their employees at least $16.28 per hour. This applies to workers 16 years old and older. However, there are some exceptions, such as tipped employees, independent contractors, and workers under 16.
For comprehensive and up-to-date information on Washington’s minimum wage, it’s recommended to visit the official website of the Department of Labor & Industries: https://lni.wa.gov/workers-rights/wages/minimum-wage.
Washington Boasts Highest State Minimum Wage in the US:
Washington state holds the title for the highest minimum wage in the nation, as of February 19, 2024. This wasn’t always the case, as the federal minimum wage remained at $7.25 since 2009, while Washington surpassed it in 2009.
For workers aged 16 and above, the current minimum wage in Washington is $16.28 per hour (effective January 1, 2024). It’s important to note that this applies to most workers, but there are some exceptions like tipped employees, independent contractors, and workers under 16.
Younger workers, aged 14-15, have a slightly lower minimum wage of $13.84 per hour. For exempt employees (those not eligible for overtime pay), the salary threshold is double the annual minimum wage.
Additionally, some specific groups of salaried employees and rideshare drivers may see higher pay due to additional state-mandated adjustments.
Local Variations:
While Washington has the highest state minimum wage, some cities within the state have even higher local minimum wages. For example, in Seattle, the minimum wage is set to exceed the state minimum by more than $2 in 2023. This means that employers in these cities must pay their workers even higher rates than the state minimum.
Washington Minimum Wage Overview:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| State Minimum Wage (effective Jan 1, 2024) | $16.28 per hour |
| Minimum Wage for Minors (14-15 years old) | $13.84 per hour |
| Regulated by | Washington Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) |
| Website | https://lni.wa.gov/ |
| Local Variations | Yes, some cities have higher minimum wages than the state rate (e.g., Seattle: $19.97/hr) |
| Minimum Wage Increase Frequency | Annually based on cost-of-living adjustments |
| Exemptions | Yes, some workers are exempt, such as apprentices and certain workers with disabilities |
| Tip Credit | Not allowed. Employers must pay all tips and service charges directly to employees. |
| Filing Wage Complaints | Yes, through L&I’s website or by phone. |
| Future Wage Adjustments | Announced in September, effective January of the following year. |
Who Qualifies for Minimum Wage:
- Most jobs: The minimum wage applies to a wide range of positions, including agricultural and non-agricultural occupations, regardless of industry or company size.
- Work hours: All hours worked count, including opening and closing the business, required training, and meetings.
- Age: Workers aged 16 and above are entitled to the minimum wage.
- Exceptions: There are some exceptions, including:
- Computer professionals: May be exempt if they meet certain criteria (e.g., advanced skills, salary level, independent work).
- Workers aged 14-15: Receive a slightly lower minimum wage ($13.84 as of 2024).
- Disabled employees/trainees: Companies can apply for sub-minimum wage certificates in specific cases.
Exempt Categories:
- Executive, administrative, professional, and computer professionals: Must meet specific duties and salary thresholds to qualify for exemption.
- Outside sales employees: Earn a commission that meets certain requirements in addition to a base salary.
- Independent contractors: Self-employed individuals providing services under contracts, not employees.
Additional Information:
- Current minimum wage: $16.28 per hour for workers aged 16 and above (effective January 1, 2024).
- Local variations: Some cities within Washington may have higher minimum wage requirements.
- Overtime pay: Employees earning less than double the annual minimum wage are entitled to overtime pay.
- Resources:
- Washington State Department of Labor & Industries: https://lni.wa.gov/workers-rights/wages/minimum-wage
Minimum Wage in Washington: Past 15 Years:
| Year | Effective Date | Minimum Wage (Adults) | Minimum Wage (Minors) | Increase From Previous Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | January 1st | $16.28 | $13.84 | $0.54 |
| 2023 | January 1st | $15.74 | $13.38 | $0.25 |
| 2022 | January 1st | $14.49 | $12.97 | $0.99 |
| 2021 | January 1st | $13.69 | $12.54 | $1.19 |
| 2020 | January 1st | $13.50 | $12.32 | $1.50 |
| 2019 | January 1st | $12.00 | $11.40 | $1.00 |
| 2018 | January 1st | $11.50 | $10.90 | $0.50 |
| 2017 | January 1st | $11.00 | $10.40 | $1.00 |
| 2016 | January 1st | $9.47 | $8.97 | No increase |
| 2015 | January 1st | $9.47 | $8.97 | No increase |
| 2014 | January 1st | $9.32 | $8.82 | $0.15 |
| 2013 | January 1st | $9.19 | $8.69 | $0.17 |
| 2012 | January 1st | $9.04 | $8.54 | $0.13 |
| 2011 | January 1st | $8.67 | $8.17 | $0.12 |
| 2010 | January 1st | $8.55 | $8.05 | $0.08 |
Future Minimum Wage:
The future of Washington’s minimum wage is that it will increase to $16.28 per hour on Jan. 1, 2024. This is based on a state law that adjusts the minimum wage annually according to the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). Washington will have the highest state minimum wage in the country, ahead of California at $16 per hour.
Some local jurisdictions in Washington, such as Seattle and SeaTac, have higher minimum wage rates than the state. The minimum wage for younger workers, ages 14 or 15, will be $13.84 per hour (85% of the standard minimum wage). The minimum wage for ride share drivers will also increase depending on the location and the distance of the trip.
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