Workers’ Compensation Laws in Washington

If you’re injured on the job in Washington, workers’ compensation benefits can help you recover by covering medical care, lost wages, and more. Understanding the workers’ compensation laws in Washington will help you make informed decisions and protect your rights as you seek support during recovery.

This guide breaks down the basics of workers’ compensation in Washington, including eligibility, the claims process, benefits, and how to get help if your claim is denied.

Who Is Covered by Workers’ Compensation in Washington?

In Washington, nearly every worker is protected under the state’s workers’ compensation system. Employers are required to provide coverage through the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) or by becoming self-insured if approved by the state. Workers who are typically covered include:

• Full-time and part-time employees
• Seasonal and temporary workers
• Agricultural and farm workers
• Undocumented workers
• Workers employed by staffing agencies

Independent contractors may not be covered unless they are misclassified. Domestic workers in private homes may also be excluded in some cases.

What Injuries Are Covered?

Washington’s workers’ compensation system covers injuries and illnesses that occur as a result of your job duties. Covered injuries include:

• Sudden accidents (e.g., slips, falls, and equipment-related incidents)
• Repetitive stress injuries (e.g., tendonitis or carpal tunnel syndrome)
• Occupational illnesses (e.g., hearing loss, chemical exposure, respiratory issues)
• Mental health conditions stemming from workplace trauma (in some cases)

Injuries caused by intoxication, horseplay, criminal activity, or self-harm may not be eligible for benefits.

How to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Washington

Washington uses a centralized system for filing claims. Here’s how to start the process:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Care: Go to an approved healthcare provider and inform them that your injury is work-related. The doctor will help file the report with L&I.
2. File a Claim: Your healthcare provider will submit the Report of Accident (ROA) to L&I. You can also file online at lni.wa.gov or by phone.
3. L&I Review: L&I will evaluate your claim and notify you within 60 days whether it’s accepted or denied.

You must file your claim within one year from the date of injury (or within two years for occupational diseases), or you may lose eligibility.

Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Washington

If your claim is approved, you may be eligible for several types of benefits, depending on the nature of your injury.

Medical Benefits

L&I covers all necessary and reasonable medical treatment related to your workplace injury, including:

• Doctor visits
• Surgery
• Physical therapy
• Prescription medication
• Medical equipment (e.g., braces, wheelchairs)

You must see a provider in the L&I network for continued care unless otherwise approved.

Time-Loss Compensation

If you can’t work due to your injury, you may qualify for time-loss compensation, which is a partial wage replacement. It pays:

• 60–75% of your gross wages, depending on your number of dependents
• Paid every two weeks
• Begins after the third consecutive missed workday

Loss of Earning Power (LEP) Benefits

If you return to work in a lower-paying job due to your injury, you may receive LEP benefits to help make up the difference in wages.

Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)

If you have lasting physical impairment but can still work, you may receive a lump-sum award or structured payment based on the degree of permanent disability.

Permanent Total Disability (PTD)

If you are unable to return to any type of gainful employment, you may qualify for lifetime pension benefits.

Vocational Rehabilitation

L&I may provide job retraining, education, and employment placement assistance to help you transition into a new line of work.

Death Benefits

If a worker dies due to a job-related injury or illness, surviving family members may receive:

• Funeral expenses
• Monthly benefits for spouses and dependents

Choosing a Doctor

Initially, you may see any licensed provider for emergency treatment. For ongoing care, you must choose a provider in L&I’s medical provider network. You may switch doctors, but you must notify L&I and receive approval for the change.

Return-to-Work Guidelines

Washington encourages injured workers to return to light-duty or modified work when medically approved. Your employer may offer a transitional job that fits your physical restrictions. If you refuse appropriate work, your wage-replacement benefits could be reduced or discontinued.

If you return to work but can’t earn your pre-injury wages due to your injury, LEP benefits may help cover part of the wage loss.

Appealing a Denied Claim

If your claim is denied by L&I or your employer, you have the right to appeal. Appeals must be filed with the Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals (BIIA) within 60 days of the decision. Common reasons for denial include:

• Insufficient medical documentation
• Dispute over whether the injury is work-related
• Late filing

You may want to consult a workers’ compensation attorney to strengthen your appeal.

Legal Help for Workers in Washington

If you’re facing a denied claim, confusing paperwork, or delays in treatment, a Washington workers’ compensation attorney can assist you. An experienced attorney can help you:

• Meet all deadlines and file paperwork correctly
• Maximize your benefits
• Navigate the appeals process
• Protect your rights during disputes

Final Thoughts

Workers’ compensation laws in Washington are designed to support injured workers and help them recover both physically and financially. Filing a claim early, seeing the right doctors, and knowing what benefits you’re entitled to can make the recovery process smoother. If your claim is denied or delayed, don’t hesitate to seek legal guidance—help is available to ensure your rights are protected.