What is wage and hour law?

Wage and Hour Law is a set of laws that are designed to protect workers in the state of Washington. These laws set the minimum wage that an employer must pay their workers, as well as how many hours they can be made to work in a week. They also cover overtime wages, meal and rest periods, and the provision of benefits like holiday and vacation pay. The minimum wage in Washington is higher than the federal minimum wage, so employers must adhere to the state-set wage. They are also required to pay overtime wages for any hours worked over 40 per week (or 8 hours per day for those working daily shifts). Employees must receive a meal break after each 5 hours of work, as well as rest breaks for every 4 hours of work. Holiday and vacation pay must also be provided, and employers must keep accurate records of the hours their employees have worked. These laws are put in place to make sure workers are compensated fairly for their labor. By ensuring that employers are following the law and paying their employees according to the laws set out by the state, workers are less likely to be taken advantage of and can hold their employers accountable to fair wages and working conditions.

Related FAQs

What are the rules for paying overtime?
What are the implications of not complying with wage and hour laws?
What are the rules for paying salary employees overtime?
How should employers handle employees who work remotely?
Are employers allowed to pay employees differently based on their experience?
Are employers allowed to ask an employee for medical documentation for an extended absence?
Are employers allowed to reduce an employee’s wages while they are on vacation?
What are the requirements for conducting background checks on potential employees?
What are the rules for tip-pooling?
What is the difference between paid and unpaid leave?

Related Blog Posts

What is Wage and Hour Law and How Does it Affect Your Business? - July 31, 2023
What Employers Need to Know About Wage and Hour Law - August 7, 2023
The Basics of Payroll Law and Compliance - August 14, 2023
Compensating Your Employees - Tips for Wage and Hour Law Compliance - August 21, 2023
Understanding Overtime Rules Under Wage and Hour Law - August 28, 2023