Starting in 2020, Washington will be the fifth state in the nation to offer paid family and medical leave benefits to workers. The program is funded by premiums paid by both employees and many employers, and is administered by the Employment Security Department (ESD).
This insurance program will allow workers to take up to 12 weeks, as needed, when they welcome a new child into their family, are struck by a serious illness or injury, need to take care of an ill or ailing relative and for certain military-connected events. If workers experience multiple events in a given year, they may be eligible to receive up to 16 weeks, or up to 18 weeks if the employee experiences a serious health condition with a pregnancy that results in incapacity.
As directed by the Legislature, premium assessment began on Jan. 1, 2019 and benefits can be taken starting Jan. 1, 2020.
Learn more about the program by downloading an infographic or fact sheet:
FAQ: 6 things to know about Paid Family and Medical Leave (English)
FAQ: 6 things to know about Paid Family and Medical Leave (Spanish)
Overview infographic (English)
Overview infographic (Spanish)
Paid Family and Medical Leave vs. Paid Sick Leave (English)
Paid Family and Medical Leave vs. Paid Sick Leave (Spanish)
