Washington state’s Paid Sick Leave Law ensures that workers don’t have to choose between their health and their paycheck. Whether you’re recovering from an illness, caring for a loved one, or dealing with a domestic violence situation, you have the right to take paid time off.
Unfortunately, many workers don’t know their rights, and some employers violate the law by denying leave, requiring unnecessary documentation, or retaliating against employees who use their benefits.
Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself.
Who Is Covered?
All employees in Washington state, including part-time, seasonal, and temporary workers, are covered under the Paid Sick Leave Law. In Seattle, the Paid Sick and Safe Time (PSST) ordinance offers additional protections for workers in the city.
How Sick Leave Is Earned
What You Can Use Sick Leave For
You can use your accrued sick leave for:
Seattle-Specific Protections
Seattle’s PSST law expands on state protections:
Common Violations
Despite clear guidelines, some employers:
If your employer is doing any of these, they may be violating Washington law, and you may be entitled to compensation.
What to Do If Your Rights Are Violated
Final Thoughts Paid sick leave is your legal right in Washington. If your employer is denying you time off, retaliating, or failing to track your leave, you don’t have to face it alone. Call Emery | Reddy today for a Free Case Review.
Whether you’ve been injured on the job, subjected to mistreatment in the workplace, or affected by a privacy breach, our expert attorneys are here to help.
