Heads up, Washington employers: the maximum weekly benefit for the state’s Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program has increased from $1,000 to $1,206 as of January 1, 2021. Each September, the Employment Security Department (ESD) is required to adjust the maximum weekly benefit amount for the following calendar year to 90 percent of the state’s average weekly wage. ESD has updated its online PFML weekly benefits calculator and 2021 Benefit Guide to show the increased benefits amount.
Tips: If you‘re using estimated PFML benefits to determine a supplemental benefits payment to an employee on leave, you may want to consider revising your estimate for 2021 in light of this increase. Vigilant’s Model Policy, Washington Paid Family and Medical Leave Policy, has been updated to reflect this annual change. Reach out to your Vigilant Law Group employment attorney with any questions about Washington PFML.
