Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection for Single Mothers in Washington

Last updated: September 2025

This is your practical, no‑nonsense hub for keeping your job, income, and health coverage while pregnant or parenting in Washington. Every paragraph below includes direct links to the right office or law so you can act fast. Keep this open while you make calls and submit forms.

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If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

• Call the Paid Family & Medical Leave line to ask what you qualify for and how soon you can start pay; then start your online application the same day.

  Use the Customer Care Team at 1-833-717-2273, apply on the Washington Paid Family & Medical Leave site, and review the state’s current processing time on the PFML Updates page. (paidleave.wa.gov)

• Ask your boss in writing for a pregnancy or lactation accommodation that you need today (more breaks, a seat, lifting limits, or a private pumping room) and copy yourself.

  Use model language based on the Attorney General’s Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Accommodations guidance, confirm the 17‑pound lifting limit and “no doctor’s note” rules on L&I Pregnancy Accommodations, and know federal backup rights under the EEOC’s PWFA final rule. (atg.wa.gov)

• If you got a firing, discipline, schedule cut, or denial of leave for pregnancy or pumping, start a complaint now to lock in deadlines.

  File with the Washington State Human Rights Commission (pregnancy cases have a 12‑month limit), consider a PWFA charge with the EEOC Seattle Field Office, and call Washington LawHelp’s CLEAR line for free legal advice if you qualify. (hum.wa.gov)

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Quick Help Box – Numbers and Links You’ll Need Often

• PFML customer care: 1-833-717-2273; apply and check status on PaidLeave.wa.gov, and reach the PFML Ombuds if you hit service problems. (paidleave.wa.gov)
• L&I workplace rights (sick leave, retaliation): 1-866-219-7321; read Paid Sick Leave rules and file a Worker Rights Complaint online if needed. (lni.wa.gov)
• WA Human Rights Commission (pregnancy discrimination): 1-800-233-3247; start an employment discrimination complaint and ask for language help. (hum.wa.gov)
• EEOC (federal PWFA and Title VII): 1-800-669-4000; book intake with the EEOC Seattle Field Office or the national EEOC Public Portal. (eeoc.gov)
• Washington 211 resource line: Dial 211 or 1-877-211-9274; search WA211 for local rent, food, and utility help and text 211WAOD to 898211. (wa211.org)

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What this guide covers

You’ll get step‑by‑step instructions to lock in time off and pay, stop discrimination fast, protect pumping time, and keep health care and child care in place. You’ll also find regional contacts for nonprofits, legal help, and emergency utility protections. Washington law changes often; always confirm details by reading the linked pages and calling the listed numbers.

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Core Rights in Washington When You’re Pregnant or Postpartum

Start here. These laws are active now in Washington and work together. If one doesn’t cover you, another usually will.

• Bold rule you can use today: Ask for basic pregnancy accommodations without a doctor’s note. You can ask for extra bathroom breaks, food and water at work, a seat, no lifting over 17 pounds, and time/space to pump. Employers with 15+ employees must provide these, and they cannot force leave if a different solution works. Read the state’s Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Accommodations page, see the “no doctor’s note” details and 17‑pound limit on L&I Pregnancy Accommodations, and learn the broader federal backstop in the EEOC PWFA final rule. (atg.wa.gov)
• Bold rule on pumping space: Washington requires reasonable breaks and a private, non‑bathroom pumping space for two years after birth. That is stronger than federal law’s one‑year minimum. The Department of Health lactation page cites RCW 43.10.005 and summarizes rights; the DOL PUMP Act explains the federal floor; and MRSC’s explainer confirms Washington’s two‑year rule and coverage threshold. (doh.wa.gov)
• Bold rule against discrimination: It’s illegal to demote, cut hours, or fire you because you’re pregnant, recovering, or pumping. File quickly with the WSHRC (pregnancy cases: 12 months) or the EEOC (PWFA/Title VII generally: up to 300 days in Washington). See WSHRC’s filing page for options, read EEOC’s pregnancy rights overview, and keep copies of your written requests. (hum.wa.gov)
• Bold rule on paid time off for health and bonding: Washington’s Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML) pays up to 90% of your weekly pay (capped) while you’re recovering from birth and bonding. Check your weekly cap and eligibility on PaidLeave.wa.gov, see the 2025 max ($1,542/week) on the PFML benefits page, and review job‑protection rules and hours requirement (820 hours). (paidleave.wa.gov)
• Bold rule on paid sick time: Most workers earn at least 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 40 hours worked and can use it after 90 days. Read the L&I Paid Sick Leave rules, see recent 2025 updates on allowed uses, and learn how to file a Protected Leave complaint if your employer blocks you. (lni.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Document in writing, then call the WSHRC for discrimination, file a Worker Rights Complaint with L&I for sick leave or retaliation, and consider a federal EEOC charge if your employer has 15+ employees. Keep using PFML Customer Care for benefit questions and the PFML Ombuds if your claim stalls. (hum.wa.gov)

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How Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML) Works for Pregnancy, Recovery, and Bonding

Most important action first: Apply as soon as you have your expected due date or medical certification—don’t wait until baby arrives. You must hit 820 hours in your qualifying period, and claims take about 3–4 weeks to process.

• Use the PFML “Find out how paid leave works” page to confirm your 820‑hour eligibility and claim timing, read current processing time on the PFML Updates page, and call 1-833-717-2273 for help applying. (paidleave.wa.gov)
• Washington’s 2025 maximum weekly PFML benefit is $1,542. Benefits pay up to 90% of your weekly wage up to the cap. Verify the dollar cap and use the state calculator on PaidLeave.wa.gov; see the 2025 amount shown on PFML’s benefits page and the PFML overview. (paidleave.wa.gov)
• Duration: up to 12 weeks medical leave for pregnancy/birth recovery, plus up to 12 weeks family leave for bonding; up to 16 weeks combined, and up to 18 weeks if you had a pregnancy‑related serious health condition. Confirm durations at How PFML works, read the hours rule in PFML eligibility, and see combining options on the same page. (paidleave.wa.gov)
• Job protection: PFML job restoration applies when your employer has 50+ Washington employees and you’ve worked there 12 months with 1,250 hours in the prior year. Check the job protection section on PFML eligibility, and note that smaller employers may still be covered by federal and state anti‑discrimination laws. (paidleave.wa.gov)
• Timing tip: You can take PFML a little at a time or in full weeks. The minimum claim unit is eight consecutive hours per week. See intermittent leave rules and examples on PFML “Find out how paid leave works.” (paidleave.wa.gov)
• Appeals: If PFML denies or underpays your claim, you have 30 days to appeal by mail or fax. Appeals go to the Office of Administrative Hearings; call the PFML Ombuds for independent help navigating problems. (paidleave.wa.gov)

Quick PFML numbers and rules (2025)

How to apply step‑by‑step:

1. Create your SAW account and PFML account on the PaidLeave.wa.gov portal, check the technical support page if you get stuck, and call 1-833-717-2273 if SAW linking fails. (paidleave.wa.gov)
2. Collect documents: photo ID, your Social Security number, employer info, due date or medical certification, and birth proof later if needed. Review the “How it works” pages on PaidLeave.wa.gov, and ask the PFML Ombuds if you need an accommodation or language help. (paidleave.wa.gov)
3. File your initial application and weekly claims: submit the first claim online at PaidLeave.wa.gov, then file weekly certifications. Confirm timelines on PFML updates and call customer care for questions. (paidleave.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal within 30 days using the PFML Appeals page, contact the independent PFML Ombuds for problem‑solving, and consider FMLA for job‑protection overlap (unpaid) while your PFML cash claim is pending. (paidleave.wa.gov)

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Stacking PFML, FMLA, Paid Sick Leave, and the Family Care Act

Most important action first: Map your timelines to protect both pay and your job. Ask HR in writing which leaves will run together.

• Use PFML for paid time, FMLA for job protection if your employer is large enough, and your L&I Paid Sick Leave bank as needed. Review FMLA basics (12 weeks unpaid with job protection), check PFML durations and cap, and confirm the paid sick leave accrual and 90‑day use rule on L&I. (dol.gov)
• Washington’s Family Care Act lets you use your paid leave (like sick or PTO) to care for a child or certain relatives and specifically includes a wife or daughter disabled due to pregnancy or childbirth. Read L&I’s Family Care Act page, review RCW citations, and keep employer policy copies. (lni.wa.gov)
• If domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking affects you or your child, Washington’s Domestic Violence Leave Act lets you take reasonable time (paid or unpaid) for safety, court, or services, and you can ask for workplace safety changes. See L&I’s Domestic Violence Leave page and statute summaries. (lni.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your employer forces you to burn sick leave instead of PFML or refuses FCA use, file a Protected Leave complaint with L&I; if job protection is denied under FMLA, call the federal Wage & Hour Division and consider talking to Washington LawHelp about next legal steps. (lni.wa.gov)

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Pregnancy & Lactation Accommodations You Can Request Today

Most important action first: Send HR a short email listing the specific changes you need and the date you need them.

• Washington’s Healthy Starts Act requires (for employers with 15+ employees) no‑note accommodations including restroom breaks, food/drink, seating, and a 17‑pound lifting limit. Confirm details on the Attorney General’s accommodations page, check worker‑friendly summaries on L&I, and keep a copy of your request. (atg.wa.gov)
• After birth, you get reasonable break time and a private, non‑bathroom space to express milk for two years. Read the Department of Health lactation page, see the federal PUMP Act one‑year floor, and keep your employer’s written plan on file. (doh.wa.gov)
• The federal PWFA also requires reasonable accommodations for pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions unless undue hardship. See the EEOC’s final PWFA rule and “What You Should Know” explainer for examples you can copy into your request. (eeoc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File a pregnancy accommodation complaint with the Attorney General’s Civil Rights Division (pregnancy@atg.wa.gov, 1‑833‑660‑4877), consider a WSHRC complaint for discrimination, and file with the EEOC if your employer has 15+ workers. (lni.wa.gov)

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City‑by‑City Stronger Rules You Should Know

Use these if you work inside city limits with extra protections.

• Seattle Paid Sick & Safe Time: accrual and carryover are higher for big employers; Tier 3 workers accrue 1 hour per 30 hours with larger carryovers. Read Seattle OLS PSST, check the 2024–2025 employer resource pages, and post the city poster at your workplace. (seattle.gov)
• Tacoma Paid Sick Leave: aligns with state law but adds bereavement and other local differences; contact Tacoma FIRST 311 at 253‑591‑5306 and review Tacoma’s Minimum Employment Standards page. See the city’s workplace notices with translated posters and L&I contacts. (tacoma.gov)
• SeaTac Hospitality & Transportation: covered workers accrue paid sick/safe time at 1 hour per 40 hours with no cap, plus high local minimum wage and other rules. Read the SeaTac code section 7.45.020, see the city’s Employment Standards Ordinance page, and review coverage definitions. (codepublishing.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your city enforcement office (Seattle Office of Labor Standards, Tacoma Minimum Employment Standards, City of SeaTac) and file a city complaint; for state‑level sick leave issues, file with L&I Worker Rights. (seattle.gov)

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Keep Your Health Coverage, WIC, and Child Care While You’re Off Work

Most important action first: Apply for coverage and food benefits now so they start before your due date.

• Apple Health (Medicaid) for pregnancy and postpartum: coverage during pregnancy and a full 12 months after pregnancy ends; income limits are at or below 210% of FPL. Check the HCA pregnant individuals page, see the income increase notice (effective Nov. 1, 2024), and review the postpartum coverage policy. (hca.wa.gov)
• WIC nutrition: pregnant and postpartum parents and kids under five may qualify; see 2025 WIC income guidelines, call the WIC Cascades Support Line at 1‑800‑841‑1410, and apply on the WIC application page. (doh.wa.gov)
• Working Connections Child Care (WCCC): state subsidy now uses up to 60% of State Median Income with low copays; check DCYF WCCC eligibility, view the income/copay bands, and apply online or by phone. Verify figures with the DCYF WCCC pages since amounts can change mid‑year. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• Child support: if you need to start or adjust support, call the DSHS Division of Child Support KIDS Line (1‑800‑442‑KIDS), find your local DCS office, and note that PFML payments can be subject to child support withholding starting September 2025. (dshs.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Washington 211 to find a navigator, ask WithinReach/Help Me Grow WA at 1‑800‑322‑2588 for enrollment help, and use Washington LawHelp for appeals or denials with benefits. (wa211.org)

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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Washington Today

Most important action first: Call your utility before the disconnection date and ask for a payment plan and any low‑income program; then apply for LIHEAP immediately.

• Start with LIHEAP—one application per program year with grants often posted directly to your account. Use the Commerce LIHEAP page and the public map tool to find your county provider, and confirm the 150% FPL income rule on LIHEAP Clearinghouse Washington. (commerce.wa.gov)
• If you have investor‑owned gas/electric (Avista, PSE, Pacific Power, Cascade, NW Natural), UTC rules require disconnection notices, medical certificate options, and winter low‑income protections in tariffs. Read WAC 480‑100‑128 and 480‑90‑128 disconnection rules, and call the UTC Consumer Line at 1‑888‑333‑9882 if the company won’t set terms. (app.leg.wa.gov)
• Extreme heat days: state law now prohibits electric and water shutoffs when the National Weather Service issues heat alerts. See the Commerce Extreme Heat Shutoff Moratorium page and confirm whether your utility posted hot‑weather protections. (commerce.wa.gov)
• Big local utilities: contact numbers and programs are here—
  • Seattle City Light/Utilities: 206‑684‑3000; see Seattle Utility Bill Help for payment plans and assistance.
  • Puget Sound Energy: 1‑888‑225‑5773; read PSE’s Billing & Payments and HELP program information.
  • Tacoma Public Utilities: 253‑502‑8608 payment arrangements; see TPU Payment Assistance.
  • Snohomish PUD: 425‑783‑1000; review PUD Financial Assistance and discounts. (seattle.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a supervisor, then call the UTC Consumer Line for investor‑owned utilities; for PUDs/municipal utilities, contact the utility’s assistance office and your LIHEAP county agency same day; ask 211 to warm‑transfer you to a local charity program if you’re out of time. (atg.wa.gov)

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Reality Check – Timelines, Delays, and Denials

• Bold expectation: PFML is taking about 3–4 weeks to process, so submit early and file weekly claims on time. Watch the PFML Updates page and call if the status sits longer than posted. (paidleave.wa.gov)
• Bold expectation: WSHRC intakes can take days to weeks; filing keeps your deadline safe. Use the WSHRC contact page to send a completed complaint by email or fax and keep your stamped copies. (hum.wa.gov)
• Bold expectation: City labor offices and L&I complaints may take months; if you need immediate protection (like pumping space), put your request in writing, then call your agency contact the same week. Confirm city rules on the Seattle OLS PSST page and statewide rules on L&I. (seattle.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Bold mistake: Waiting to apply for PFML until after birth. Apply as soon as your provider can certify your expected date using the PFML “How it works” timeline, then submit weekly claims promptly. (paidleave.wa.gov)
• Bold mistake: Asking for a pumping space verbally only. Send a short email that cites RCW 43.10.005 and the federal PUMP Act, and ask for a private, non‑bathroom room and flexible breaks. Keep copies. (doh.wa.gov)
• Bold mistake: Letting the 12‑month pregnancy discrimination deadline lapse at WSHRC. Mark your calendar the day the harm happened and file on the WSHRC page before the deadline even if you’re still talking with HR. (hum.wa.gov)
• Bold mistake: Not using paid sick leave during the 90‑day PFML wait to apply or for prenatal care. Earned hours are yours by law—see L&I Paid Sick Leave, and ask your HR how to code it. (lni.wa.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Application Checklist – Print or Screenshot

• PFML account and documents: SAW login, provider certification (or due date), proof of birth when available, employer info; use PaidLeave.wa.gov and call 1‑833‑717‑2273 if stuck. (paidleave.wa.gov)
• Accommodation request email: list needs (breaks, seating, lifting, schedule) and cite the ATG Accommodations page plus L&I Pregnancy guidance. (atg.wa.gov)
• Pumping plan: ask for a clean, private, non‑bathroom room with a power outlet and storage; cite DOH Lactation and PUMP Act. (doh.wa.gov)
• Paid sick leave balance: check last pay stub; confirm accrual and 90‑day use rules via L&I. (lni.wa.gov)
• Health coverage: apply for Apple Health on the HCA pregnancy page; confirm postpartum 12‑month coverage and the 210% FPL income limit update. (hca.wa.gov)
• WIC appointment: call 1‑800‑841‑1410; review 2025 WIC income guidelines; schedule your first appointment. (doh.wa.gov)
• Child care help: check WCCC (DCYF) eligibility and copay bands and apply online. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• Utility help: apply for LIHEAP via the Commerce map; if investor‑owned, read shutoff rules under WAC 480‑100‑128 (electric) and WAC 480‑90‑128 (gas). (commerce.wa.gov)

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If Your Application Gets Denied (PFML, Sick Leave, Accommodations, or Complaints)

• PFML denial or underpayment: appeal within 30 days using the PFML Appeals process, and ask the PFML Ombuds to review barriers or accessibility issues. Keep copies of weekly claims and any employer letters. (paidleave.wa.gov)
• Sick leave/retaliation: file a Worker Rights Complaint with L&I, attach pay stubs/screenshots, and note any schedule cuts after you used leave. L&I will investigate and can cite the employer. (lni.wa.gov)
• Accommodation denial: send a short second email pointing to the ATG Accommodations page and ask for an “interactive process” meeting; then file with the WSHRC or EEOC if the employer refuses or retaliates. (atg.wa.gov)
• Discrimination case stalled: call the WSHRC status line and consider a dual filing with the EEOC Seattle Field Office to protect federal claims. (hum.wa.gov)

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Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

• Legal help: call the Northwest Justice Project CLEAR Line (1‑888‑201‑1014, weekdays 9:15–12:15) and browse WashingtonLawHelp for step‑by‑step guides on pregnancy and work and DV leave. (resources.helpmegrowwa.org)
• Perinatal support: Open Arms Perinatal Services offers free doulas and lactation support in King/Pierce/Snohomish; contact 206‑866‑0729 and explore the Birth Worker Directory if the program is full. (openarmsps.org)
• Early intervention for babies: refer to Early Support for Infants & Toddlers (ESIT) via DCYF and the Help Me Grow WA Hotline (1‑800‑322‑2588), or contact your county ESIT program. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• Domestic violence & safety: call the National DV Hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233, reach WSCADV to find local programs, or contact SafePlace Olympia (24/7 line 360‑754‑6300) for regional help. (acf.hhs.gov)
• Statewide referral line: dial Washington 211 (or 1‑877‑211‑9274) for nearby diaper banks, food pantries, and utility programs, or search WA211 online. (wa211.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Washington 211 to “warm transfer” you to a local navigator; email WithinReach/Help Me Grow WA for benefits enrollment support; and re‑contact CLEAR during phone hours if you couldn’t get through the first time. (withinreachwa.org)

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Resources by Region (examples you can call today)

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Diverse Communities – Targeted Notes and Contacts

• Bold LGBTQ+ single mothers: You are protected from discrimination at work under federal EEOC rules and state law; cite EEOC guidance in your complaints and use WSHRC if your employer retaliates. For affirming perinatal care, check Open Arms and ask about LGBTQ+ matched doulas in the Birth Worker Directory. Access translation and relay via Washington Relay 711 if needed. (eeoc.gov)
• Bold single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask for reasonable accommodations under PWFA and the ADA with HR in writing, and seek ESIT for children 0–3 through DCYF ESIT or Help Me Grow WA. For state developmental disability supports, contact DDA Intake & Eligibility by region. Request large‑print applications or TTY via Washington Relay. (eeoc.gov)
• Bold veteran single mothers: The VA Women Veterans Call Center (1‑855‑829‑6636) connects you to maternity care coordination and benefits; get local help via the Center for Women Veterans and Washington Department of Veterans Affairs info lines. For workplace issues, also use the EEOC Seattle Field Office. (va.gov)
• Bold immigrant/refugee single moms: You can file with WSHRC without immigration status questions and request interpretation at ESD for PFML. Use WithinReach/Help Me Grow WA for multilingual navigation, and ask the agency for translated notices. TTY and Relay 711 are available statewide. (hum.wa.gov)
• Bold tribal‑specific resources: If your tribe operates Tribal TANF, contact your tribal office or DSHS for directory listings; use the StrongHearts Native Helpline (1‑844‑762‑8483) for culturally specific DV support. For PFML and wage rights, you still use state systems unless you work for a tribally owned business on tribal land (PFML eligibility can differ). See PFML waivers/localization for nuance. (acf.gov)
• Bold rural single moms with limited access: Call WorkSource to schedule phone appointments, use PFML phone line to apply if internet is unstable, and dial 211 to be routed to local LIHEAP agencies or mobile WIC clinics. Consider paper filing for appeals and keep fax confirmations. (esd.wa.gov)
• Bold single fathers: If you are the sole or primary parent, the same PFML bonding benefits and pumping (if applicable for chestfeeding) or caregiver protections apply. See PFML bonding on PaidLeave.wa.gov and DOL PUMP Act for lactation coverage language. For child support custody questions, call the DCS KIDS Line. (paidleave.wa.gov)
• Bold language access: Ask agencies for interpreters up front and keep that request in writing. ESD PFML offers free interpretation; WSHRC also provides language services; use Washington Relay 711 for TTY/voice. Ask for large‑print forms when needed. (esd.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Escalate to supervisors and the agency’s civil rights program (for example, L&I Civil Rights Program for language access issues with L&I) and note you need an accommodation under state and federal civil rights laws. (lni.wa.gov)

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County‑Level Variations You Might See

• Bold Seattle: Stronger PSST rules, higher carryovers, and more situations when you can use leave; wage theft enforcement through the Office of Labor Standards. If you work in Seattle, follow city rules even if your employer is based elsewhere. (seattle.gov)
• Bold Tacoma: Similar to state, but check city Paid Sick Leave additions like bereavement and notice posting requirements; use Tacoma FIRST 311 for help. (tacoma.gov)
• Bold SeaTac (airport/hospitality/transportation): Paid sick/safe time with no cap and special successor‑employer protections; read the SeaTac ordinance. (codepublishing.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use the city complaint process and state L&I complaints in parallel; the strongest law applies to you. (seattle.gov)

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Tables You Can Use

Leave Programs at a Glance

City Sick Leave Snapshot

PFML 2025 Quick Facts

Sources: PFML benefits, PFML “How it works”, and PFML Updates/Appeals pages. (paidleave.wa.gov)

Utility Shutoff Protections

Fast Contacts and Appeals

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Real‑World Examples

• You lift packages at work and your back hurts at 28 weeks. Email HR asking for “no lifting over 17 lbs, frequent water/restroom breaks, and a stool to sit.” Cite ATG Accommodations and L&I Pregnancy. If the boss says “we don’t do restrictions,” reply with the link and ask to schedule the interactive process. If they push leave only, note the law bars forcing leave when an accommodation works. If they still refuse, file with WSHRC. (atg.wa.gov)
• Your PFML is still “pending” three weeks in and your due date is next week. Call 1‑833‑717‑2273, check PFML Updates for current timelines, and message the PFML Ombuds for help if you can’t reach an agent. If denied, appeal within 30 days. (paidleave.wa.gov)
• Your power is about to be shut off with a newborn at home. Call the utility and ask for a medical certificate or payment plan; then apply for LIHEAP through Commerce’s map the same day; if investor‑owned, mention WAC 480‑100‑128 and call the UTC Consumer Line if they won’t work with you. (commerce.wa.gov)

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FAQs (Washington‑Specific)

1. Bold question: How much PFML money will I get in 2025?

   PFML pays up to 90% of your weekly pay up to $1,542/week for new claims in 2025. Use the state calculator on PaidLeave.wa.gov and verify the cap on the benefits and how it works pages. (paidleave.wa.gov)

2. Bold question: Do I need a doctor’s note for bathroom breaks or a stool?

   No. For employers with 15+ employees, Washington law requires those accommodations without a doctor’s note: restroom breaks, food/drink, seating, no lifting over 17 lbs, and pumping needs. See ATG Accommodations and L&I Pregnancy. (atg.wa.gov)

3. Bold question: Is pumping space required for two full years?

   Yes. Washington requires reasonable break time and a private, non‑bathroom pumping space for two years after birth, stronger than the federal one‑year minimum. See DOH Lactation and the PUMP Act summary. (doh.wa.gov)

4. Bold question: Will I lose my job if I take PFML?

   Job protection under PFML applies if your employer has 50+ WA employees and you’ve been employed 12 months with 1,250 hours in the prior year; otherwise, you still have strong anti‑discrimination rights. See the PFML job protection section. (paidleave.wa.gov)

5. Bold question: How long do I have to appeal a PFML denial?

   30 days from the date of the decision. Start on the PFML Appeals page and contact the PFML Ombuds for help. (paidleave.wa.gov)

6. Bold question: I’m a temp/part‑time worker—do my hours count toward PFML?

   Yes. Full‑time, part‑time, temporary, and seasonal hours all count toward the 820‑hour requirement; multiple employers’ hours add together. See PFML eligibility on PaidLeave.wa.gov. (paidleave.wa.gov)

7. Bold question: My boss says “we’re too small” for pregnancy accommodations. What now?

   Washington’s pregnancy accommodations law applies at 15+ employees, but federal PWFA also covers 15+; smaller employers still can’t discriminate. Discuss with WSHRC and the EEOC Seattle Field Office to explore options. (atg.wa.gov)

8. Bold question: Can I get Apple Health (Medicaid) during pregnancy and after?

   Yes. Apple Health covers during pregnancy and 12 months postpartum; income limit is 210% FPL (as of Nov. 1, 2024). Check HCA’s pregnant individuals page and the income increase notice. (hca.wa.gov)

9. Bold question: What if my utility insists on shutting me off?

   For investor‑owned utilities, cite WAC 480‑100‑128 (electric) or 480‑90‑128 (gas) on notice and payment options; call the UTC Consumer Line (1‑888‑333‑9882) to mediate; apply for LIHEAP immediately. (app.leg.wa.gov)

10. Bold question: Where do I get fast legal advice if I can’t afford a lawyer?

Call CLEAR at 1‑888‑201‑1014 during intake hours, search WashingtonLawHelp for pregnancy/work guides, and consider WSHRC complaint navigation help. (resources.helpmegrowwa.org)

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Spanish Summary / Resumen en español

Esta sección es un resumen breve de los pasos más importantes. Esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA; confirme siempre en los enlaces oficiales.

• Bold PFML: Para solicitar licencia pagada por embarazo, recuperación y apego, aplique en PaidLeave.wa.gov o llame al 1‑833‑717‑2273. El beneficio máximo semanal en 2025 es $1,542; el procesamiento tarda 3–4 semanas. (paidleave.wa.gov)
• Bold Acomodaciones en el trabajo: Washington requiere pausas para el baño, comida/agua, asiento, límite de 17 libras y un espacio privado (no baño) para extraer leche, por hasta 2 años después del parto. Revise ATG Embarazo/Lactancia, L&I Embarazo, y DOL PUMP Act. (atg.wa.gov)
• Bold Discriminación: Presente queja con la Comisión de Derechos Humanos del Estado (WSHRC) (1‑800‑233‑3247) dentro de 12 meses, o con la EEOC Seattle. (hum.wa.gov)
• Bold Seguro de salud y WIC: Apple Health cubre durante el embarazo y 12 meses después (límite de ingresos 210% FPL); WIC ofrece alimentos y apoyo; vea HCA Embarazo y WIC DOH. (hca.wa.gov)
• Bold Servicios y ayuda local: Marque 211 (o 1‑877‑211‑9274) para programas locales, y use LIHEAP para evitar cortes de servicios públicos. (wa211.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Washington Paid Family & Medical Leave (Employment Security Department)
• Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (Paid Sick Leave, DV Leave, complaints)
• Washington State Office of the Attorney General (Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Accommodations)
• Washington State Human Rights Commission (WSHRC)
• U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (PWFA, Title VII)
• U.S. Department of Labor (FMLA, PUMP Act)
• Washington Health Care Authority (Apple Health for Pregnant Individuals)
• Washington State Department of Health (Lactation rights)
• Washington State Department of Commerce (LIHEAP, Extreme Heat Shutoff Moratorium)

Find each source embedded above as italic links in the relevant sections.

Last verified September 2025, next review January 2026.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

Legal and benefits rules change frequently: Always confirm with the official agency pages linked above or by phone before you act. This guide summarizes key Washington‑specific rules for pregnancy, workplace rights, leave, and related supports as of September 2025. The program amounts and eligibility can vary by county, employer size, and your work history; call the agency numbers provided to confirm current availability before applying. Key references include PFML benefit caps and eligibility, L&I sick leave rules, ATG pregnancy accommodations, FMLA basics, and LIHEAP & UTC protection pages. (paidleave.wa.gov)

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What to do if this doesn’t work: If any link is broken or a phone line is down, search the agency’s main site (e.g., PaidLeave.wa.gov, Lni.wa.gov, Hum.wa.gov), or call Washington 211 for a live referral and a warm transfer to the right office. (paidleave.wa.gov)

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🏛️More Washington Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Washington

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• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery