How to file a workplace rights complaint

If a worker believes her/his rights have been denied by such things as not receiving regular pay, overtime pay, rest and meal breaks, not being allowed to use paid sick leave to care for a sick family member, or any other protected leave issue, s/he can:

1. For wage, overtime pay or rest and meal break complaints: Download and complete a Worker Rights Complaint form (F700-148-000).
2. For leave from work complaints: Download and complete a Protected Leave Complaint form (F700-144-000).
3. For Complaints about Prevailing Wage: Download and complete a Prevailing Wage Complaint form (F700-146-000).

4. If you have problems downloading the complaint form, visit or call the nearest L&I Office to obtain a copy. Instructions on how to fill out the form are included with the forms. Follow the procedure on each form for mailing instructions.

5. Note: In most cases, L&I will give the employer your name and a copy of your complaint at the time we notify the employer of your complaint. Further, public disclosure laws allow for others to gain access to most complaint files once the investigation is closed. Complaints about protected leave for domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking are confidential and will not be released.

Questions and answers

• What happens after a worker files a Worker Rights Complaint?

  The wage or other workplace rights complaint will be reviewed by L&I staff for completeness and to make sure that L&I has jurisdiction. The worker may be asked to provide additional information and/or evidence to support the complaint. For wage complaints, L&I cannot guarantee collection. L&I will investigate most types of complaints filed by workers. Specific to wage complaints, L&I will work with the business and the worker to resolve the wage complaint. If unsuccessful, L&I will ask the business to pay the wages by issuing a citation. L&I may determine that the employer does not owe wages. Either the business or the worker can appeal either of these L&I decisions through an administrative process.

• Can a worker who has quit still file a complaint?

  Yes, in most cases. S/he should call the nearest L&I office for help about the particular problem.

Protection from discrimination

It is against the law for a business to fire or otherwise discriminate against a worker for filing a complaint about a possible violation of their workplace rights. In protected leave cases, L&I will investigate allegations of discrimination. In other workplace rights complaints - generally, the worker must seek assistance from a private attorney to address this further.