Labeled estimate

Washington payroll tax rules, 2026

These figures are estimates built from published 2026 rates. Withholding is approximated from the yearly brackets; check Washington's official withholding tables before filing.

State income tax withholding

Washington has no state income tax on wages.

State unemployment (employer)

  • Taxable wage limit: $78,200 per employee per year.
  • New-employer rate used: 1%. Your state assigns your actual rate.
  • New-employer rate is 90% of the industry average (minimum 1.0%); 1.0% assumed.

Federal taxes (every state)

  • Social Security 6.2% employee + 6.2% employer, up to $184,500 of wages.
  • Medicare 1.45% employee + 1.45% employer; extra 0.9% employee tax over $200,000.
  • Federal unemployment (FUTA) 0.6% on the first $7,000 per employee.

Also good to know

  • Washington Paid Family and Medical Leave, WA Cares and workers' comp hours-based premiums are not included.

Sources: Tax Foundation — State Individual Income Tax Rates and Brackets, 2026; EY — State unemployment insurance wage bases and tax rates for 2026.

Calculate a Washington paycheck