• How do I change or update my workers' compensation risk classes?

  Contact your L&I account manager. Their phone number is listed on your quarterly report form. If you don't have a copy of your report form, go to the Verify Workers' Comp Premium Status tool on the L&I web site and enter your account number or UBI number. Click on the link that names your business. Your account manager's name and phone number will appear at the bottom of the page.
  

• Can you tell me how a claim (or claims) will affect my workers’ compensation rates?

  A claim will affect your rates for rates for three years, starting 1-2 years after the date of injury. We can usually give you a rough estimate of how claims will affect your experience factor, which is the formula we use to determine your rates relative to other employers in your industry. Contact your account manager (see the question above for how to find your account manager) or ask the Small Business Liaison for help.

• I haven’t had a claim in a long time. Do I get a break on my workers’ comp rates?

  Yes. If you haven't had a compensable claim in the past three years, you receive a claim-free discount that ranges from 10-40 percent, depending on the number of workers' compensation hours that you report. A "compensable" claim is one that has costs other than medical treatment (time-loss, pension, partial permanent disability payment). In addition, if you have a claim-free discount, medical-only claims do not affect your rates.

• I have only a few employees. Am I required to have a workplace safety plan?

  Yes. The Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act (WISHA) requires all employers to create and use an Accident Prevention Plan. You can find a step-by-step checklist and template for creating your safety plan on the L&I web site at www.lni.wa.gov/safety/basics/smallbusiness.

• I'm just starting my business. Where can I find information about government requirements?

  Go to www.Business.wa.gov for lots of helpful information on state and local requirements. Find information about federal requirements (IRS, Social Security, etc.) at www.Business.gov. Also, take a look under the “Useful Tools” tab at the top of this web page.

• I have an established business and am hiring an employee (or employees) for the first time. How do I sign up for workers' compensation insurance?

  When you add employees for the first time, you need to re-file your state Master Business Application, which can be found online on the Department of Licensing web site. Be sure to check one of the “Hire Employees” boxes in Section 1 of the application, then fill out all sections that apply to your business including Section 5 “Employment/Elective Coverage.” L&I and the Employment Security Department will be notified and will establish workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance accounts for your company or organization. You will receive your account information in a few weeks. If you’re hiring workers right away and need help, contact the L&I Small Business Liaison.

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Have a question you don't see here? 

Send it to L&I's Small Business Liaison at: SmallBusiness@Lni.wa.gov.