Washington's minimum wage of $16.28 (in 2024) is higher than the current federal rate of $7.25.

Under federal law and in most states, employers may pay tipped employees less than the minimum wage, as long as employees earn enough in tips to make up the difference. This is called a "tip credit."

However, Washington is one of the few states that does not allow employers to take a tip credit. Employers must pay all employees at least the state minimum wage, regardless of how much the employee earns in tips.