Intro to L&I's Workers' Comp Insurance
What is workers' compensation (industrial insurance)?
Workers' compensation provides no-fault industrial insurance coverage for most employers and workers in Washington State.
Benefits include medical treatment for workers who are injured in the course of their employment or develop an occupational disease as a result of their work activities.
Workers who are unable to work due to accepted conditions related to an industrial injury or occupational disease may be eligible for partial wage replacement benefits.
What workers' compensation pays for
- Approved medical, hospital and related services due to workplace injuries.
- Compensation for those who are temporarily unable to work full-time.
Employers must provide coverage for their employees. In return, employers normally cannot be sued for damages when a work-related injury or illness occurs.
Employers purchase coverage through L&I
The agency manages claims and pays benefits out of an insurance pool called the Washington State Fund.
The fund is financed by premiums paid by employers and employees.
Open a workers comp account
If you plan to hire employees in Washington, you'll need to open a workers' comp account with L&I. Learn how.
Optional owner coverage
Owners of sole proprietorships and other businesses without employees are not required to have workers' compensation insurance. However, they may choose to purchase it from L&I to cover their own medical expenses if they are injured on the job. Call 360‑902‑4817 for more information. Request an Application for Elective Coverage for Industrial Insurance.
The Employers' Guide to Workers' Compensation Insurance in Washington State (F101‑002‑000) is a general guide that explains Washington State's workers' compensation insurance program.
How to file and pay workers' comp (industrial) insurance
Get information about how to sign up to pay quarterly reports online or submit them by mail.
Managing claims
Manage Your Injury Claims when an employee is injured.
View your employees' claim information online 
.
Self-insurance
Employers may qualify to provide their own coverage under L&I's program administered by the Self-Insurance Section.
Protests & appeals
Appeal an L&I decision about your coverage or rates.
Training
You can attend free workshops, trainings, and webinars about workers' compensation. See scheduled workshops.
