Filing Workers' Compensation Appeals

Introduction

A claim for workers' compensation starts with an application for benefits filed with the Department of Labor and Industries or a self-insured employer. [Department of Labor & Industries]

If you disagree with a decision made by the Department or self-insured employer, you should do one of the following:

• File a protest (request for reconsideration) with the Department, OR

• File an appeal with the BIIA. 

Do not file a protest with the Department if you are filing an appeal with the BIIA.

Appeals

You must file an appeal within 60 days of the date you receive the Department's decision.  

Your appeal should include:

• The name and address of the claimant (and his/her representative) and the name and address of the employer.
• The claim number assigned by the Department of Labor and Industries.
• A description of the injury/disease, including the date it occurred.
• The date of the Department decision being appealed.
• The city in which you would like proceedings to be held.
• What you are asking for.

You can file a Workers' Compensation appeal online:

You can file the appeal by mail:

Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals
Attention: Executive Secretary
PO Box 42401
Olympia WA 98504-2401

Or file in person:

Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals
Attention: Executive Secretary
2430 Chandler Court SW
Olympia WA 98504-2401

For further information you may request the booklet Your Right to Be Heard.

For more information about the appeal process, click here.

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