Calculating WA PFML can feel overwhelming, especially for small business owners and solo entrepreneurs. However, understanding how to accurately compute your Paid Family and Medical Leave contributions is crucial for compliance and budgeting. Micro-Payroll offers a free payroll tax calculator designed to simplify this process in 2026, ensuring you're not only compliant but also informed. This guide will walk you through the steps to calculate WA PFML, along with other relevant Washington payroll tax considerations.
Understanding WA PFML and Its Importance
WA PFML provides essential benefits to employees needing time off for family or medical reasons. As a business owner, you're required to contribute to this program, which means understanding how to calculate these contributions accurately. In 2026, the total WA PFML rate is set at 1.13%, with employees responsible for 0.8072% of this rate, according to the Washington Employment Security Department's November 2025 announcement. Knowing these rates helps ensure you're setting aside the correct amount for payroll taxes and avoiding potential penalties.
Calculating WA PFML Contributions
To calculate WA PFML contributions, follow these steps: 1. Determine your employee's gross wages — this is the total earnings before deductions. 2. Multiply the gross wages by the employee's PFML rate of 0.8072% — this gives you the amount to withhold from their paycheck. For example, if an employee earns $5,000 a month, the calculation would be $5,000 x 0.008072 = $40.36. 3. Keep in mind that as an employer, you're also responsible for contributing your share, which completes the total contribution to WA PFML. 4. Ensure to track these calculations monthly to maintain compliance with state requirements.
Additional Washington Payroll Taxes to Consider
In addition to WA PFML, you need to account for several other payroll taxes. Here's a brief overview: Social Security tax is 6.2% on wages up to $176,100, as set by the IRS. Medicare tax is 1.45% on all wages. WA Cares, which funds long-term care, is at 0.58%. Lastly, Washington's Labor & Industries (L&I) insurance rates vary based on your business's risk class code. Keeping these rates in mind helps you create a more accurate payroll budget.
To simplify your calculations and ensure accuracy, use the free payroll tax calculator at micro-payroll.com. It's an invaluable tool for small businesses and solo entrepreneurs.
Try Free Payroll Calculator →