L&I

Washington State Prevailing Wage: The Intent and Affidavit System That Tracks Every Public Works Payment

Washington State's prevailing wage system requires contractors on public works to file a Statement of Intent to Pay Prevailing Wages before starting work and an Affidavit of Wages Paid after completion. The documents are public record, the L&I Department polices them, and a contractor whose affidavit doesn't match the certified payroll is subject to penalties and potential bar from future public work. Washington's system is stricter than most states', and contractors bidding WA public works need to understand the mechanics.