What do I need to know about Parental Leave in Washington State?
Washington state offers 16-18 weeks of paid parental leave for birthing parents and 12 weeks of paid parental leave for non-birthing parents. This is because birthing parents qualify for up to six additional weeks due to the disability component of their leave.
To qualify, you must have worked a minimum of 820 hours during the qualifying period. The qualifying period is defined as: the last four completed calendar quarters immediately preceding the application for leave. For full information on this state benefit program, please see here.
What if I moved to the State of Washington in the last year?
Cocoon will surface benefits from the work state that you listed in your dashboard, so if you paid taxes in a state other than Washington within the last year, please let us know. If you have questions about your eligibility within the qualifying period, please see here for more information.
How can I prevent delays in the filing of my claims?
You can create your WA PFML account ahead of your leave so that you're ready to login and file your claim when your leave begins. Cocoon will provide any forms you need and help you through the process.
How often do I need to apply for claims during my leave?
The state requires that you file your claim within four weeks of your leave start and requires you to certify your claims every week you are on leave. This becomes available on Sundays for the previous week.
How do I create a WA PFML account?
Sign Up: You can sign up for your account at https://secureaccess.wa.gov/myAccess/saw/select.do?from=workerslogin
What documentation will I need to file my claim?
To file your claim online, you will need a valid proof of identity.
If you’re using your… | You will need to upload… |
Passport | Photo of the photo & signature page |
Passport card | Photo of the front of the card |
ID card | Photo of the front of the card |
Driver’s license | Photo of the front of the card |
B1/B2 Visa Border Crossing Card | Photo of the front of the card |
Other forms of accepted identification are listed here.
When will I need to file by paper?
If you do not have any of the identifying pieces of verification above, you will need to file by paper. The state of Washington will grant paper applications in special circumstances and send the form directly to your home address.
Which parts of the claim process are unique for non-birthing parents?
If you are the non-birthing parent, meaning you DID NOT physically give birth to the child, you are required to provide proof of bonding with your claim.
Acceptable documentation includes:
Hospital Verification Letter
Birth Certification
How will I receive payment?
You are able to receive payment via debit card or direct deposit. If you would like to set up direct deposit, please add your bank account information by logging into the Washington portal.
If you opt for the debit card and your claim is approved, then you'll receive a debit card from the State, which you'll need to activate. It may take up to two weeks for funds to appear on your card.
How does Cocoon ensure that I’m paid correctly during leave?
To help Cocoon verify that you are paid correctly during your leave, please report the benefit payments that you receive from Washington state and your private disability provider (if you have one). You can report your payments by taking screenshots of your benefit payment details from the WA PFML portal.
Have Questions? We're here to help!
Email us at [email protected]