News

WA’s paid leave premium rate will increase to 1.2% in 2027

WA’s paid leave premium rate will increase to 1.2% in 2027

Photo: Saga Communications/Ellie Coberly


OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – The state’s paid leave premium is rising for workers next year.

The Washington State Employment Security Department announced on Friday, Oct. 16, that the state’s paid family and medical leave premium rate is increasing to 1.2% in 2027.

That’s up from the current rate of 1.13%.

Paid leave benefits are funded by both employees, who will pay nearly 71% of the total premium, and employers, who will pay about 29%.

According to the state, more than 220,000 people have claimed roughly $1.8 billion in leave benefits in 2026 through September.

The premium rate is adjusted each year based on contributions and benefits paid during the previous year.

Latest Headlines

4 minutes ago in Entertainment

Hometown of ‘Addams Family’ creator becomes ghoulish Halloween destination

Fresh

Before there was "The Addams Family," there was Westfield. Cartoonist Charles Addams, who created the eccentric, fictional family, drew inspiration for his signature macabre style from the elegant Victorian homes, historic cemetery and other landmarks of his New Jersey hometown.

6 minutes ago in Sports, Trending

Brewers beat the Rays 4-1 in Game 5 to win the first World Series title in franchise history

Fresh

The small-ball Milwaukee Brewers playing in the smallest market in the majors are World Series champions for the first time. Hey, Milwaukee: grab a brat, raise a beer and prepare for that parade.

8 minutes ago in Entertainment

South Carolina police close investigation into Hayden Panettiere’s death after coroner’s ruling

Fresh

Police in South Carolina have closed their investigation into the overdose death of actor Hayden Panettiere following a coroner's finding that it was accidental. The decision was based on the medical examiner's determination as well as the findings of the investigation, Greenville police said Wednesday in a statement.