MINIMUM WAGE WILL GO UP JANUARY 1, 2023

MINIMUM WAGE WILL GO UP JANUARY 1, 2023

On January 1, 2023, minimum wage will increase in Washington state to $15.74 an hour. The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (WSDLI) announced the minimum wage increase to $15.74 on January 1, 2023. For every hour worked, employers will have to pay at least this amount. However, employers may pay workers aged between fourteen and fifteen 85% of the adult minimum wage which equals $13.38 per hour. In certain circumstances, employers can apply for a sub-minimum certificate which allows them to pay less than minimum wage to workers meeting certain criteria. WSDLI defines these workers as certified on the job learners, student workers, student learners, certificated workers with disabilities and certain apprentices. The conditions for this certification is detailed on the WSDLI website.

Annually, WSDLI adjusts for cost of living based on the federal Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers. On September 30^th of each year this adjustment is announced and set to take effect on January 1^st.

For more information, visit the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries here.