Workers' Compensation: Washington

Federal law and guidance on this subject should be reviewed together with this section.

Author: Kevin Hess, Fisher Phillips

Summary

• All Washington employers that receive industrial insurance coverage are required to post a specific notice in the workplace. See Notice Requirements.
• Almost all Washington employers must obtain workers' compensation insurance through the Washington State Fund or by obtaining self-insurance. See Covered Employers.
• All employees, whether full-time or part-time, are covered by workers' compensation insurance, with few exceptions. See Covered Employees.
• Any injury or illness that occurs due to employment generally qualifies for workers' compensation coverage. See Compensable Injuries and Illnesses.
• Employers may not be liable for certain injuries incurred under specific circumstances. See Employer Defenses to Workers' Compensation Claims.
• Workers' compensation pays both medical and indemnity benefits. See Benefits.
• Washington state law provides for a specific claims procedure as well as a specific procedure for disputed claims. See Claims Procedure.
• Employers or their insurance carriers may receive financial assistance or protection when employees exacerbate injuries or when catastrophic accidents injure a large number of employees. See Financial Protections for Employers.
• Employers may not discriminate or otherwise retaliate against employees for exercising their rights under the workers' compensation statute. See Retaliation and Interference.