Is workers' compensation required in Washington?

Yes, Washington requires workers' compensation insurance for any business with one or more employees. The state is monopolistic, which means coverage must be obtained through the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) rather than a private insurer. This no-fault system ensures medical bills and lost wages are covered for work-related injuries or illnesses.

What are Washington's commercial auto insurance minimums?

In Washington, all commercial vehicles must carry a minimum liability coverage. The required limits are $25,000 for bodily injury liability per person, $50,000 for bodily injury liability per accident, and $10,000 for property damage liability per accident. Businesses should consider higher limits for adequate protection as these minimums can be insufficient for a major accident.

How much does business insurance cost in Washington?

The cost of business insurance in Washington varies based on factors like industry, size, and coverage needs. A general liability policy can range from $300 to $10,000 annually. Many small businesses in Washington opt for a Business Owner's Policy (BOP), which bundles general liability, commercial property, and business interruption insurance for a more affordable price.

All Licensed States

WA — Licensed & ActiveUpdated Mar 2026

Commercial Insurance in Washington.

From tech hubs to agricultural heartlands, we cover Washington businesses.

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Washington's diverse economy, from the tech giants of Seattle and Bellevue to the agricultural centers of the Yakima Valley, requires specialized insurance solutions. The state's monopolistic workers' compensation system and unique employment laws add another layer of complexity. RISKX understands the Washington market and provides tailored coverage to protect your business.

Key Industries in Washington

Technology & SaaSAerospace & AviationAgriculture & Food ProductionConstruction & ContractorsForestry & Forest ProductsHealthcare

Workers' Compensation in Washington: Required

Washington is a monopolistic state — employers must purchase workers' compensation through the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I), not from private carriers. Coverage is required for any business with one or more employees. Large employers may apply to become certified self-insurers, but most businesses use the state fund.

Washington Regulatory Notes

Washington is a monopolistic state for workers' compensation, requiring coverage through the state fund.

The state is an at-fault state for auto accidents, not a no-fault state.

Washington has its own Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program with specific employer requirements.

The Washington Law Against Discrimination (WLAD) provides broader protections than federal anti-discrimination laws, increasing EPLI risks.

Workers' Comp Rate Details — Washington

Index Rate

$1.35

per $100 payroll

National Rank

#12

of 51 jurisdictions

vs. Median

24%

above national median

Required At

1 employee

Above Average Cost

Monopolistic State: Washington requires employers to purchase workers' comp from the state fund. Private carriers cannot sell WC coverage here. You'll need separate employer's liability (stop-gap) coverage through RISKX.

•MONOPOLISTIC STATE — must purchase from Washington Department of Labor & Industries (L&I)
•Private carriers cannot sell WC in Washington
•Employers must separately purchase employer's liability / stop-gap coverage
•Both employer and employee contribute to premiums

Penalty for non-compliance: Gross misdemeanor; fines and penalties assessed by L&I

Rate data: Oregon DCBS 2024 Premium Rate Ranking Study. Index rates represent the median rate per $100 of payroll across all classification codes.