This page provides essential information regarding key state-specific labor laws, employee rights, and compliance requirements. Our goal is to ensure you have easy access to the necessary documents and information to understand your rights and obligations while working in the District of Columbia.
Tax Withholdings
Employees working in the District of Columbia are responsible for ensuring the correct amount of federal and state income tax is withheld from your paycheck.
- Federal Income Tax: Complete Form W-4 (IRS) Employee's Withholding Allowance Certificate to figure the correct amount of federal income tax to have withheld from your paycheck.
- District Income Tax: As a employee working in the District of Columbia, you are required to complete D-4 Employee Withholding Allowance Certificate. This form allows you to select your desired district income tax withholding percentage. If you do not submit this form, your witholdings will be withheld at the default rate.
Please submit both completed forms to the Payroll Office via the secure Payroll Office FileSender.
Leave Policies
Paid Family Leave in the District of Columbia
- DC workers can apply for paid family leave. The Paid Leave Act provides up to:
- 2 weeks to care for your pregnancy
- 12 weeks to bond with a new child
- 12 weeks to care for a family member with a serious health condition
- 12 weeks to care for your own serious health condition
For inquiries regarding the Paid Family Leave program, please contact the Office of Paid Family Leave at does.opfl@dc.gov or visit: dcpaidfamilyleave.dc.gov
Workplace Rights & Posters
Access important labor law posters and workers' compensation information relevant to employees in the District of Columbia. These posters provide a summary of various employment laws and worker protections.
Workers Compensation
Worker's Compensation coverage extends to remote employees who suffer a work-related injury or illness while performing their job duties. For an injury to be covered, it must arise out of and in the course of employment. Workers' compensation claims must be reported to the Risk Management Office at 610-758-3899 within one business day of the accident.
How to Claim Unemployment Insurance Benefits
If you become unemployed through no fault of your own and meet eligibility requirements, you may be able to claim Unemployment Insurance Benefits through the District of Columbia Office of Unemployment Compensation website.
Important Note: This information is a summary and is subject to change. For complete details and the most current regulations, please refer to the official District of Columbia Department of Employment Services (DOES) website and consult with Lehigh University's HR and Payroll departments for specific guidance.