The following information is provided by the Department of Labor and Industries:
A recent compliance review revealed a high rate of non‑compliance with required certified payroll filings for the following project types:
- Combined Forms.
- Small Works.
- Emergency Work.
- Purchased Services.
- Job Order Contracts.
- On Call.
As of January 1, 2020, weekly certified payroll reports are required to be filed online with L&I at least once a month for all public works projects. Please note, contractors can be penalized for failing to file (see RCW 39.12.050:)
Certified payroll report requirements
Contractors must file accurate weekly payroll records with L & I online at least once per month on ALL public works projects (regardless of the type of contract and including combined forms).
Certified payroll report records must include the following:
- Employee’s full name.
- Address.
- Social Security number.
- Trades and occupations, Including journey level and apprentice workers.
- Straight and overtime rate of pay (actual rate of wage paid).
- Hourly rate of usual benefits.
- Hours worked, including overtime hours worked each day and week.
- All executed 4/10 work agreements.
- All itemized deductions taken from gross wages.
Note: To be certified, the payroll records must include the state affirmation page. The affirmation page is a signed statement that the contractor is adhering to the Washington State Prevailing Wage Law and includes correct and complete information.
Awarding Agencies: Please communicate this requirement for all public work, regardless of the dollar amount. Combined forms are processed and approved by the contract owner, and diligence in ensuring certified payroll requirements are met is necessary.
Contractors: Please ensure you are following the requirement to file certified payroll on every project. If you are a prime or hiring contractor, ensure this requirement is clearly communicated to subcontractors.
You can access training videos or read our step-by-step instructions to learn how to access and file certified payroll online.
Additional Resources
Contractor Training & Workshops
F700-032-000 The Washington State Prevailing Wage Law
If you have questions regarding the process or issues with using the online filing system, you can reach out to the prevailing wage program via the email address or contact number below
Email: PW1@Lni.wa.gov
Toll-Free: 1-855-545-8163
If you have any questions about prevailing wage, please contact the Prevailing Wage program at 360-902-5335 or by email at PW1@Lni.wa.gov.