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Workers’ Compensation: Your First Steps

by | Feb 27, 2025 | Workers Compensation

Filing a workers’ compensation claim in Washington State involves several steps. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Report the Injury to Your Employer

  • As soon as possible, tell your employer about the injury. It’s important to report it right away to ensure that your claim is processed quickly.
  • If you don’t report it within 1 year, you may lose the right to file a claim.

2. Get Medical Treatment

  • Seek medical attention for your injury. If it’s an emergency, go to the emergency room. For non-emergencies, you can visit your doctor or a healthcare provider.
  • Your doctor will need to provide a “Report of Accident” if they determine that your injury is work-related.

3. File the Claim

  • You or your doctor can file a workers’ compensation claim with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). This is the agency that handles workers’ compensation claims in the state.
  • You can file the claim in several ways:
    • Online: You can file your claim on the L&I website using their online system. You will need to create an account to submit your claim.
    • By Phone: You can call L&I at 1-800-823-3400 to file the claim over the phone.
    • By Mail: You can also submit a paper claim by mailing a Report of Accident (ROA) form to L&I. You can get this form from your employer, doctor, or the L&I website.

4. Wait for L&I to Review the Claim

  • Once the claim is submitted, L&I will review it to determine whether your injury qualifies for workers’ compensation benefits.
  • They will look at medical records, the nature of the injury, and other details to make a decision.

5. L&I Makes a Decision

  • If the claim is accepted, you will start receiving benefits like medical treatment coverage and compensation for lost wages.
  • If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.

6. Stay in Touch with L&I

  • Keep L&I informed about your recovery, and any changes to your medical condition.
  • If your condition improves or worsens, or if you go back to work or need additional medical care, let them know.

Helpful Tips:

  • Keep records: Save all documents, medical records, and communication regarding your injury and claim.
  • Follow the rules: Make sure to file your claim and reports on time to avoid delays or problems.
  • Get legal help with Althauser Rayan Abbarno: If you have trouble with your claim, or if it’s denied, consider speaking to with an injury attorney with Althauser Rayan Abbarno- FREE Workers’ Compensation Consultations by calling (360) 736-1301.