Washington Paid Family and Medical Leave resources released | Vigilant

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Dec 10, 2019

Washington Paid Family and Medical Leave resources released

The Washington Employment Security Department (ESD) just released new resources to help your employees apply for Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) benefits starting on January 1, 2020. The downloadable tools are available here, and include a Parent’s Guide (how to apply for bonding leave), a Patient and Family Guide (how to apply for leave related to personal or family medical reasons), a sample notification to the employer, and an eligibility questionnaire. Employers are still waiting for two important resources: the mandatory poster and the notice to employees. They haven’t been released yet, but we will announce their availability in this newsletter when they’re published.

Tips: Even though PFML will be approved and administered by ESD, your employees will probably come to you first with questions about taking leave. When this happens, direct them to the website above to review the resources provided by ESD, including eligibility, timing, and medical documents needed. Also, be prepared to discuss your expectations regarding PFML, including timely notice and providing copies of the leave approval from ESD. For more information on the employer’s responsibilities on January 1, 2020, as well as what you should be doing now to prepare, consult the PFML webinar and FAQs and talk with your Vigilant employment attorney. Also check out our Model Policy, Washington Paid Family and Medical Leave.

If you need help and you’re not a member yet contact us to learn more about Vigilant membership. We’re here to help you navigate complex employment issues.

This website presents general information in nontechnical language. This information is not legal advice. Before applying this information to a specific management decision, consult legal counsel.
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About The Author

Jodi Slavik

Employment Attorney & Strategic Services Director Vigilant Law Group
  • Washington State University, B.A. in Political Science
  • Seattle University, J.D.
  • Attorney licensed in Washington
  • Accomplished speaker
  • Lover of all things fun and funny

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