Washington onboarding checklist for employers
An onboarding checklist makes sure every new hire gets the same paperwork, notices and training. Here is what changes when the employee works in Washington.
Washington rules that affect this form
| Minimum wage | $17.13 per hour Verify |
|---|---|
| Paid sick leave | Yes. 1 hour per 40 hours worked, usable after 90 days of employment; no state cap on accrual or annual use, and employers must carry over up to 40 unused hours to the next year. Covers full-time, part-time and seasonal workers. |
| Meal breaks | 30-minute meal period starting between the 2nd and 5th hour of a shift longer than 5 hours; unpaid only if the employee is fully relieved of duty. Employees may waive it if both sides agree. |
| Rest breaks | Paid 10-minute rest break for every 4 hours worked, scheduled as near the midpoint as possible; cannot be waived. |
| Other rules to know | Employers with 15+ employees must include the wage scale or salary range and a general description of benefits and other compensation in job postings. Non-competes are void for employees earning under $126,858.83 (2026 threshold); a 2026 law will ban nearly all non-competes effective June 30, 2027. Washington also runs a statewide Paid Family and Medical Leave insurance program. Verify |
What to include
- Form I-9 completed by the end of the employee's third day of work
- Federal W-4 and the state withholding form, if the state has one
- Report the new hire to the state new-hire registry
- Required state and federal workplace posters and written notices
- Paid sick leave, break and overtime rules explained in plain terms
- Handbook acknowledgment signed and filed
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Frequently asked questions
Is there an official Washington onboarding checklist form?
Washington does not publish one required onboarding checklist for private employers. Use a clear template and make sure it reflects the Washington rules on this page.
What is the minimum wage in Washington in 2026?
$17.13 per hour, effective January 1, 2026. Rises to $17.73 on January 1, 2027 (announced by L&I). Workers aged 14-15 may be paid 85% of the minimum. Seattle, SeaTac, Tukwila, Renton, Bellingham, Everett, Burien and unincorporated King County have higher local rates.
Is paid sick leave required in Washington?
Yes. 1 hour per 40 hours worked, usable after 90 days of employment; no state cap on accrual or annual use, and employers must carry over up to 40 unused hours to the next year. Covers full-time, part-time and seasonal workers.
Other Washington forms
Onboarding Checklist by state
This page is general information for employers, not legal advice. Employment laws change and can vary by city and county. Confirm details with the state labor department or an employment attorney. Read our disclaimer.