Augment LeadsA reference for Washington workers' comp intake: the agency, the timing rules and what to ask, each tied to an official source. For other states, browse workers' comp leads by state.
Washington's agency and claim process
Washington's system is run by the Department of Labor and Industries (L&I). Under RCW 51.14.010, every employer must either insure with the state fund or qualify as a self-insurer. Washington is one of four states, with North Dakota, Ohio and Wyoming, where employers get workers' comp coverage through the state fund rather than private insurers, according to a 2023 Wyoming Legislature memo and North Dakota WSI.
For intake, ask whether the employer is covered by the state fund or is self-insured.
Washington timing rules for intake
Reporting to the employer
Under RCW 51.28.010, when an accident occurs, the worker, or someone on their behalf, must forthwith report it to the employer, superintendent or supervisor in charge of the work. The employer must then report it to the department at once.
Filing the claim
RCW 51.28.050 sets one year for an injury claim. Occupational disease claims are different: under RCW 51.28.055, they must be filed within two years after the worker had written notice from a physician or licensed advanced registered nurse practitioner of the disease and that a claim may be filed.
Rules change; the Washington Department of Labor and Industries has the current versions.
Questions for Washington callers
- When did the injury happen, and when did you report it to your employer?
- Has a claim been filed with L&I? When?
- Is your employer covered by the state fund, or is it self-insured, if you know?
- Is this a single injury or a condition that built up over time?
Buying Washington workers' comp leads
Augment Leads is Canada-based, founded in 2025, and generates 10,000+ leads a month for US firms. Each Washington lead is exclusive to your firm and screened against your filters, with replacements for unqualified ones. More on workers' comp leads.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Washington worker have to file a workers' comp claim?
RCW 51.28.050 sets one year for an injury claim. Occupational disease claims have two years after written notice from a physician or licensed advanced registered nurse practitioner, under RCW 51.28.055. Confirm current rules with the Washington Department of Labor and Industries.
Is Washington a state-fund state for workers' comp?
Yes. Under RCW 51.14.010, every Washington employer must insure with the state fund or qualify as a self-insurer. Washington is one of four states, with North Dakota, Ohio and Wyoming, where private insurers don't write workers' comp coverage.
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