Direct deposit provisions - Washington

Private employers in Washington state may require direct deposit as a condition of employment. The employer must not impose any costs on the employee for setting up or maintaining the direct deposit arrangement. If there are fees associated with the direct deposit, the employer must offer an alternative method of payment that allows the employee to access their wages without incurring any costs.

Public employers, including state agencies and institutions of higher education, may mandate direct deposit for their employees upon request from at least 25 employees. Employees must be able to designate their preferred financial institution and to access their full wages without incurring any fees. If an employee does not have a bank account, employers are allowed to use alternative methods such as payroll cards, provided these options do not impose costs on the employee.