OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – The state’s paid leave premium is rising for workers next year.

The Washington State Employment Security Department announced on Friday, Oct. 16, that the state’s paid family and medical leave premium rate is increasing to 1.2% in 2027.

That’s up from the current rate of 1.13%.

Paid leave benefits are funded by both employees, who will pay nearly 71% of the total premium, and employers, who will pay about 29%.

According to the state, more than 220,000 people have claimed roughly $1.8 billion in leave benefits in 2026 through September.

The premium rate is adjusted each year based on contributions and benefits paid during the previous year.