LeaveCalc / Washington / PFML weekly benefit calculator

Washington Paid Leave calculator

Enter your gross wage and instantly estimate your 2026 WA Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML) weekly benefit, your effective wage-replacement rate, and whether you hit the state maximum.

✓ Free ✓ Runs in your browser — nothing is uploaded ✓ Uses 2026 WA PFML figures ✓ Weekly wage or annual salary

1 Your wage

Based on the Washington ESD formula for the 2026 benefit year, using the statewide average weekly wage (SAWW). Your actual benefit is set by the Employment Security Department using your highest-earning quarter, not a single wage figure.

Not legal or benefits advice. This is an unofficial estimate for planning purposes only. The Employment Security Department's own calculator and your approved claim are authoritative — see paidleave.wa.gov.
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How the WA PFML weekly benefit is calculated

Washington's Paid Family & Medical Leave program replaces part of your wages while you're on approved leave. For 2026, the state's average weekly wage (SAWW) is $1,830. Wondering how much you'll get? This WA PFML calculator applies the state's exact formula so you can estimate your check before you file. The benefit formula is progressive — lower earners get a higher replacement rate:

The formula. If your average weekly wage (AWW) is at or below 50% of the SAWW ($915), your weekly benefit is 90% of your AWW. If your AWW is above $915, your benefit is 90% of $915 plus 50% of the amount over $915. Either way, the benefit is capped at $1,647/week for 2026.

How long does the benefit last?

Most claims run up to 12 weeks in a year. Some medical situations (like a serious health condition combined with a qualifying family reason, or pregnancy-related complications) can stretch combined family-and-medical leave up to 16–18 weeks. Check your specific situation on the official site.

Washington PFML FAQ (2026)

How much does Washington PFML pay in 2026?

Your weekly benefit is 90% of your average weekly wage (AWW) if it's at or below $915 — half of the 2026 state average weekly wage. Above that, you get 90% of $915 plus 50% of the amount over $915. Either way, the maximum is $1,647 per week in 2026.

Who is eligible for WA Paid Leave?

Generally, you need at least 820 hours worked in Washington during the qualifying period (roughly the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters), across one or more employers. See paidleave.wa.gov for the exact rules.

Is the WA PFML benefit taxable?

The IRS has said WA PFML benefits attributable to the family-leave portion are generally taxable; the medical-leave portion's treatment can vary. Check current IRS guidance or a tax professional for your specific case.

Why is my real benefit different from this estimate?

ESD calculates your AWW from your actual highest-earning quarter in the qualifying period, not from a single current wage. Bonuses, multiple employers, and part-year work can all change the result.