·State program
Washington Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML)
Washington State's Paid Family and Medical Leave program provides paid time off for workers who need to care for a family member with a serious health condition, bond with a new child, or address certain military-connected events. Jointly funded by employer and employee payroll contributions.
What it offers
Up to 12 weeks of family leave, 12 weeks of medical leave, or up to 16-18 weeks combined (with additional 2 weeks for pregnancy complications). Uses a progressive wage replacement formula: up to 90% of wages for lower earners, decreasing for higher earners, with a maximum weekly benefit of $1,647 in 2026. Includes job protection for covered employees when the employer has 25+ employees and the worker has been employed at least 180 days under 2026 rules. Both employers and employees contribute to funding through payroll premiums.
Questions that decide eligibility
GiveCare prepares the questions; the program makes the decision. Bring these to the call or the application:
- 01
Does the person receiving care live in Washington?
Residency is usually the first thing a program checks.
- 02
Does the VA disability rating meet the program’s minimum (our record lists null%)?
- 03
Do the work hours meet the minimum (our record lists null hours)?
- 04
Is there a caregiver-specific department, coordinator, or support line? Ask for it by name.
Many agencies have one that isn’t advertised on the website.
- 05
What documents do you need from us to start an application?
- 06
Is there a waitlist right now, and how long is it?