Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney or the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries for guidance specific to your situation.
Detailed Answer
Under Washington law, both you and your employer play roles in the workers’ compensation process. To verify whether a claim has been filed for your workplace injury, follow these steps:
1. Contact Your Employer or HR Department
Your first point of contact should be your employer or human resources (HR) department. Washington employers must report workplace injuries to the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) within one working day of learning about the injury or within 24 hours in serious cases. See RCW 51.28.070.
2. Check the L&I Online Portal
The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries offers an online claim status tool. You can log in or register for an account at the L&I website:
Enter your claim number (if available), Social Security number, or date of injury to see if a claim exists and review its current status.
3. Call the L&I Claims Center
If you cannot access the online portal, call the L&I Claims Center at 1-800-547-8367. Provide your name, date of injury, and employer’s name. A claims representative can confirm whether a claim has been filed and update you on its progress.
4. Request a Claim File Review
Under RCW 51.28.010, you are entitled to inspect your own claims file. Submit a written request to the L&I office handling your claim. You may receive copies of reports, medical records, and correspondence related to your case.
5. Monitor Your Wage-Replacement Payments
If your claim has been accepted, you may start receiving time-loss benefit checks or direct deposits. Tracking these payments can confirm that your claim is active and being processed by L&I.
Helpful Hints
- Document every injury report in writing and keep copies of all forms and emails.
- Note the date and time you informed your employer of the injury.
- Follow up in writing if your employer says they filed the claim.
- Ask your treating healthcare provider if they submitted medical reports to L&I.
- File your own claim if your employer fails to do so within seven days of accident (RCW 51.28.050).
- Be aware of deadlines: you generally must file within one year of the injury date (RCW 51.28.055).