If you’ve been hurt on the job in Washington and can’t work while you recover, you may qualify for time-loss compensation through the Department of Labor and Industries (L&I). This benefit replaces a portion of your lost wages while you’re out of work.
But many workers find themselves asking: How much will I actually receive? The answer depends on a variety of factors — and it’s not always as straightforward as it should be.
This article breaks down how time-loss compensation is calculated, what you can expect during your claim, and why it’s important to ensure you’re being paid correctly.
What Is Time-Loss Compensation?
Time-loss is the term used in Washington’s workers’ compensation system for partial wage replacement. It’s available to workers who:
- Are injured or develop a work-related illness,
- File an approved L&I claim, and
- Have a medical provider certify that they can’t return to work.
Payments are typically issued every two weeks and continue until your provider says you’re well enough to return to work — or until your claim closes.
How Much Will You Be Paid?
Time-loss payments will not be as much as your regular paycheck. Time-loss pays 60-75% of the wage you were earning before your injury. If you are already receiving time-loss benefits, it is important to double-check the calculation as L&I often makes mistakes on wage orders, miscalculates rates, or fails to consider other income sources.
Washington’s 2025 Rates:
- Maximum monthly benefit: $8,913.80
- Minimum benefit: 15% of the state’s average monthly wage, plus small additions for a spouse and dependents (roughly $1,114.22 per month plus applicable additions)
Once established, your time-loss rate will stay the same for the duration of your claim unless there’s an error. That’s why it’s critical to ensure your wage history is correct at the start.
When Do Payments Start?
f L&I receives certification from your doctor that you can’t work — and all paperwork is in order — your first time-loss check should arrive within 7 days.
After that, payments come twice a month, provided:
- Your doctor continues to certify you’re unable to work, and
- L&I receives your signed Worker Verification Form.
Time-loss payments are not taxed, and checks are void after 180 days if uncashed. You can request a replacement, but only within two years of the issue date.
Why You Might Be Paid Less Than You Should
Unfortunately, many injured workers are underpaid due to:
- Incomplete wage records (like missing overtime or second job income)
- Incorrect marital/dependent status
- L&I errors on wage orders
- Medical disputes between your provider and an L&I consultant
- Pressure from L&I or your employer to return to work early
If your benefit amount seems low or you’re struggling with delays, it may be time to get help.
How Long Do Payments Continue?
Time-loss doesn’t last forever. Your payments will stop when:
- You return to your job
- Your doctor says you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)
- Your claim is closed, or
- L&I determines you’re no longer eligible
If you experience lasting impairment, you may qualify for Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) or even a disability pension if you can’t return to work at all.
When to Talk to a Lawyer
You’re not required to hire an attorney to receive L&I benefits, but if your time-loss is delayed, miscalculated, or denied, speaking to a lawyer could make all the difference. You may benefit from legal help if:
- Your wage rate is too low
- You’re not receiving benefits on time
- Your doctor’s opinion is being challenged
- You’re unsure what benefits you qualify for
- You’re being asked to return to work too soon
A Seattle workers’ compensation lawyer can review your case and ensure you’re receiving everything you’re entitled to.
Know What You’re Owed
ime-loss compensation is designed to support you while you recover — but it doesn’t always work the way it should. Missteps, miscommunication, and administrative mistakes can cost you time and money. Don’t let an error go unchallenged.
If you’re recovering from a work injury, make sure your benefits reflect what you’re truly owed.
