Filing a Workers' Comp Claim in Washington — Steps & Deadlines
How to report a workplace injury, file a workers' compensation claim, and meet deadlines in Washington.
Step 1: Report the Injury
You must report your workplace injury to your employer within Worker must report the accident to the employer forthwith; employer must report qualifying injuries to L&I at once (immediately) §51.28.010; §51.28.025. Written notice is always recommended even if verbal notice is given.
Step 2: Get Medical Treatment
Employee may choose their own attending provider from L&I's certified provider network §51.36.010. Make sure to:
Step 3: File the Formal Claim
You have 1 year from the day the injury occurred or the rights of dependents or beneficiaries accrued; occupational disease claims are subject to the separate deadlines in RCW 51.28.055 to file a formal claim §51.28.050. Claims managed by L&I; protests and appeals heard by the Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals (BIIA) §51.52.050.
Step 4: Investigation and Response
After filing, the employer's insurer will investigate the claim. They may accept, partially accept, or deny the claim. If denied, you have the right to request a hearing.
What Happens at a Hearing?
Claims managed by L&I; protests and appeals heard by the Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals (BIIA) §51.52.050. Appeal to the Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals, then to Superior Court and Washington Court of Appeals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
General answers to common questions. Specific outcomes depend on your facts and timing.
If you have a deadline, court notice, or upcoming hearing, mention it when requesting assistance so timing can be evaluated promptly.
Related guides
- Worker must report the accident to the employer forthwith; employer must report qualifying injuries to L&I at once (immediately)
- 1 year from the day the injury occurred or the rights of dependents or beneficiaries accrued; occupational disease claims are subject to the separate deadlines in RCW 51.28.055