City of Bellingham’s Minimum Wage | FAQ
- Summit Bookkeeping
- May 1
- 2 min read
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal, business, or tax advice. Please consult with your accountant or business advisor for more information based on your specific situation.
In November 2023, Bellingham voters approved Initiative No. 2023-01, which increased the minimum wage above Washington State’s to help address the rising cost of living and ensure more equitable wages for workers within the city. In this blog post, we'll go over some of the frequently asked questions about the city's minimum wage.
What is the City of Bellingham’s minimum wage?
The City of Bellingham's minimum wage is $2.00 above the applicable Washington State minimum wage. As of May 1, 2025, the City of Bellingham’s minimum wage is $18.77.
Who does the City of Bellingham’s minimum wage apply to?
The city’s minimum wage applies to any employee who is paid minimum wage and performs work within city limits. This includes:
Full-time and part-time workers
Temporary and seasonal employees
Employees working for employers of all sizes, including nonprofits and franchises
What do I need to do as an employer?
Employers must pay at least the city minimum wage for employees working within Bellingham city limits and maintain payroll records to verify compliance with the city minimum wage.
Failure to comply with these rules may result in paying back wages to affected employees, citations, civil infractions, penalties, and possible enforcement actions from the City.
When does the City of Bellingham’s minimum wage increase?
The $2.00 increase began on May 1, 2025, and further increases are tied to the annual change to the Washington State minimum wage. Labor & Industries announces the updated Washington State minimum wage on September 30 each year, which becomes effective on the following January 1.
Payroll Processing Services in Bellingham, WA
At Summit Bookkeeping, we offer payroll processing as an optional add-on for our bookkeeping clients. Outsourcing means that you can spend less time on paperwork and more time focusing on what you do best—running your business. Our team stays up to date with the latest federal, state, and local payroll regulations to help ensure your business remains fully compliant.
If you're looking for help with your bookkeeping and payroll, give us a call at (360) 756-5020 to see if we would be a good for for your needs.
