(1) The maximum number of weeks during which family leave insurance benefits are payable in an application year is five weeks. However, benefits are not payable during a waiting period consisting of the first seven calendar days of family leave taken in an application year, whether the first seven calendar days of family leave are employer paid or unpaid.

     (2)(a) The first payment of benefits must be made to an individual within two weeks after the claim is filed or the family leave began, whichever is later, and subsequent payments must be made semimonthly thereafter.

     (b) The payment of benefits under this chapter shall not be considered a binding determination of the obligations of the department under this chapter. The acceptance of compensation by the individual shall likewise not be considered a binding determination of his or her rights under this chapter. Whenever any payment of benefits under this chapter has been made and timely appeal therefrom has been made where the final decision is that the payment was improper, the individual shall repay it and recoupment may be made from any future payment due to the individual on any claim under this chapter. The director may exercise his or her discretion to waive, in whole or in part, the amount of any such payments where the recovery would be against equity and good conscience.

     (c) If an individual dies before he or she receives a payment of benefits, the payment shall be made by the department and distributed consistent with the terms of the decedent's will or, if the decedent dies intestate, consistent with the terms of RCW 11.04.015.

[2007 c 357 § 7.]