Workers' compensation provided by employers

Self-insurance is a unique program in which the employer provides any and all appropriate benefits to the injured worker. The self-insured employer:

• Is responsible for the payment of benefits during the time that a claim is open.
• Remains liable for benefits during a lengthy reopening period provided in industrial insurance law.
• Continues to be liable for worker benefits whether the self-insurance certification is continued or surrendered.

Read the Employers' Guide to Self-Insurance in Washington State (F207‑079‑000) to better understand employer requirements and responsibilities.

L&I's role with self-insured employers is to:

• Oversee the provision of workers compensation benefits to their injured workers based on its rules and regulations.
• Review their financial strength to make sure that all workers' compensation obligations can be met.