Understanding the Washington Workers’ Compensation Retraining Program

Back view of worker looking at life/career choice after a work-related injury. Visual concept for a blog discussing Washington State's Workers’ Compensation Retraining Program

Washington’s Workers’ Compensation program — offered through the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) — provides a wide range of benefits to workers who have been hurt on the job or suffered an occupational disease. Retraining is one of the most important benefits that may be available through L&I, depending on eligibility.

What is Washington’s L&I Retraining Program?

The Washington L&I retraining program (one aspect of “vocational benefits”) provides assistance to injured workers by helping them return to the workplace. However, you will first have to go through an assessment phase to determine whether you qualify for retraining. In the event you are considered “employable,” and can return to work at any job based on your past work and skills, retraining might not be an option.

What Do L&I Retraining Benefits Include?

Washington L&I retraining benefits help injured workers return to gainful employment. When a worker is approved and chooses to participate in a retraining program, they must complete all requirements. These can include attending any classes that are part of the vocational plan, and meeting with a vocational counselor. Generally, retraining plans have a maximum duration of two years.

Specifically, Washington L&I retraining benefits can include the following:

  • On-the-job training — Retraining can involve on-the-job training, or schooling to learn new skills, or for a period of up to two years.
  • Tuition assistance — A worker will be provided funding for tuition and training costs at an L&I approved program.
  • Books and fees — The Washington Workers’ Comp retraining program will assist a worker with the cost of books and fees.
  • The cost of equipment and tools — L&I vocational benefits will cover the costs of necessary equipment and tools for retraining.
  • Childcare costs — If a worker needs childcare during the period of retraining, this may be provided through L&I.

What are the Pros and Cons of L&I Retraining?

If you were hurt on the job, it is vital to discuss with an experienced Workers’ Compensation attorney if Washington L&I retraining is right for you. Whether you should participate in vocational rehabilitation depends on your specific circumstances — these benefits might not always be the best avenue for an injured worker to pursue. While it provides a worker with the opportunity to reenter the workforce, L&I does not have to return you to the same job or to the same pay rate that you were at before the injury.

A vocational counselor will help you develop a customized plan based on your individual interests, abilities, and physical limitations. But if you are unable to maintain a steady work schedule because of your injury, or you do not have the physical or mental ability to go through the retraining program, it is important to consider whether you will be able to fulfill the program requirements.

Contact an Experienced Washington Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Understanding L&I’s retraining program can be complicated. It is critical to have a knowledgeable Washington Workers’ Compensation attorney by your side who can best advise you whether this program is in your best interests. The Bellingham Workers’ Compensation attorneys at Robinson & Kole provide dedicated counsel to injured workers throughout Washington State and work to obtain the best possible outcome in each case.

We welcome you to contact us for a free consultation by calling 360-671-8112 or by using our online contact form. Se habla Español.