Washington § 49.12.240 - Employee inspection of personnel file.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 49.12.240 — Employee inspection of personnel file., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 49.12.240. Employee inspection of personnel file.

(1) Every employer shall, at least annually, upon the request of an employee, permit that employee to inspect any or all of the employee's own personnel file(s) within the time required under RCW 49.12.250.
(2) For the purposes of this section and RCW 49.12.250, 49.12.260, and 49.12.261, "personnel file" includes the following records, if the employer creates such records:
(a) All job application records;
(b) All performance evaluations;
(c) All nonactive or closed disciplinary records;
(d) All leave and reasonable accommodation records;
(e) All payroll records; and
(f) All employment agreements.
(3) This section and RCW 49.12.250 may not be construed to:
(a) Create a retention schedule for records;
(b) Require an employer to create personnel records; or
(c) Supersede Washington state or federal privacy statutes regarding nondisclosure.
[ 2025 c 273 s 1; 1985 c 336 s 1.]

Notes

Destruction or retention of information relating to state employee misconduct: RCW 41.06.450 through 41.06.460.

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 49.12.240

What does Revised Code of Washington § 49.12.240 cover?

Section 49.12.240 ("Employee inspection of personnel file.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 49.12.240?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 49.12.240" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 49.12.240 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.