Washington Labor and Employment FAQs

• Q: Am I Entitled To Receive Damages/Penalties From My Employer For Failing To Pay Me As Required Upon Termination?
  A: L&I cannot assess penalties for failure to pay final wages. However, if you have to take legal action to get your wages, you may file in civil court for double damages.
• Q: I Was Fired From My Job For No Good Reason. Is That Legal?
  A: Yes. Washington is what's called an "at will" state. Employers may hire and fire "at will." There are no laws regarding termination, so employers are not required to … More
• Q: I Suspect My Former Employer Is Giving Bad References About Me? What Recourse Do I Have?
  A: There are no state regulations addressing references. Therefore, L&I cannot accept complaints. You may wish to consult with an attorney regarding civil recourse. … More
• Q: Who Decides How Much I Have To Pay For Industrial Insurance?
  A: The Department of Labor and Industries sets the rate, but what you pay is based on the accident and illness rates in your industry­specific job and your company's … More
• Q: What Is The Status Of My Workers Compensation Claim? (Was It Approved? Where Is My Time-Loss Check?)
  A: L&I manages over 170,000 workers' compensation claims each year. Each claim has a number and is assigned to a claims manager. The injured worker will be notified … More
• Q: What Would Be An Allowable Workers' Compensation Claim?
  A: The program pays the cost of work­related injuries and health problems. This includes all medical costs (doctors, prescription drugs, hospital expenses, etc.). On … More
• Q: What Can I Do To Minimize The Cost Of Workers Compensation?
  A: By maintaining a safe, injury­free workplace. You can do this by developing an on­going and effective safety program at your place of business. This program … More
• Q: What Does It Mean That A Contractor Is Registered By L&I?
  A: It means that the contractor has a business license and insurance and is bonded and has paid a registration fee to the department.
• Q: How Can I Find Out If A Contractor Is Registered?
  A: Call 1­800­647­0982.
• Q: How Can I Make Sure My Business/The Place I Work Is Meeting State Safety And Health Standards?
  A: You can call our toll­free line, 1­800­423­7233. You also can contact one of our 22 offices around the state. We're listed in most phone books. The … More
• Q: What Is Wisha?
  A: WISHA is an acronym for a state law called the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act. This law sets up a system for protecting worker health and safety. Safety … More

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