If you’ve been injured on the job in Washington state and your workers’ compensation claim qualifies for vocational retraining, you may be faced with a critical decision: Should you choose Option 2 retraining from the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I)? This choice can significantly impact your future employment, financial stability, and medical benefits. Let’s break down what Option 2 is, how it compares to Option 1, and whether it’s the right move for you.
What Is Option 2 Retraining?
When L&I approves a vocational retraining plan for an injured worker, you’re given two options:
- Option 1: Follow your approved retraining plan and receive time-loss throughout (up to 2 years)
- Option 2: Develop your own training plan and receive 9 months of time-loss benefits.
Option 2 allows you to take control of your vocational future. You’ll receive:
- Up to $20,914.12 (as of July 2025) in training funds.
- Up to 5 years to use those funds for tuition, supplies, and approved training programs.
However, choosing Option 2 also means your claim will close, and you’ll lose access to time-loss compensation and medical benefits related to your injury.
How Does Option 2 Compare to Option 1?
| Feature | Option 1 | Option 2 |
| Plan Type | L&I-approved plan | Self-directed plan |
| Time-Loss Compensation | Continues during training as long as you participate and meet all the requirements of the approved plan. | Ends and your claim will close. You will receive a vocational award equal to 9 months of time-loss compensation, paid out every 2 weeks. |
| Medical Benefits | Continue during training as long as you participate and meet all the requirements of the approved plan. | End and your claim will close. |
| Training Funds | $20,914.12* | $20,914.12* |
| Time to Use Funds | 2 years | 5 years |
| Flexibility | Limited to approved plan | Full control over training path |
* The maximum retraining cost is adjusted July 1 each year and the new amount is available for plans approved on or after July 1.
Option 1 is more structured and safer for those who need ongoing medical care or financial support during retraining. Option 2 is ideal for workers who are ready to move forward independently and want more time and flexibility to pursue a career change.
Who Should Consider Option 2?
Option 2 may be a good fit if:
- You’re confident in your ability to choose and complete a training program that leads to employment.
- You don’t need ongoing medical treatment for your injury.
- You want to explore a different career path than the one proposed in your L&I-approved plan.
- You’re comfortable managing your own retraining process, including budgeting and scheduling.
For example, if your VRC recommends a short-term certificate in office administration but you’ve always wanted to pursue a degree in graphic design, Option 2 gives you the freedom to do that, as long as it fits within the budget and timeline.
Risks of Choosing Option 2
While Option 2 offers flexibility, it also comes with risks:
- Loss of medical benefits: Once you choose Option 2, your claim closes and you lose access to treatment for your work-related injury.
- No time-loss benefits: You’ll stop receiving wage replacement benefits, which can be a financial strain if you’re not yet working.
- Self-management required: You’ll need to handle enrollment, budgeting, and progress tracking on your own or with limited help from a VRC.
- Reduced benefits if switching late: If you start Option 1 and then switch to Option 2, your training funds and vocational award will be reduced by what was already spent.
How to Make the Decision
Before choosing Option 2, ask yourself:
- Do I still need medical care for my injury?
- Can I financially support myself without time-loss compensation?
- Do I have a clear idea of what training I want and where to get it?
- Am I comfortable managing my own retraining plan?
- Have I consulted with an L&I attorney or vocational expert?
At Emery | Reddy, PC, we strongly recommend speaking with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney before making this decision. Your VRC works for L&I or your self-insured employer, not for you. Their recommendations may not align with your best interests.
How Emery | Reddy Can Help
Our legal team has decades of experience helping injured workers navigate the complexities of L&I claims, vocational rehabilitation, and retraining options. We can:
- Review your vocational plan and help you understand your rights.
- Advise you on whether Option 2 is a good fit for your situation.
- Help you appeal or modify your retraining plan if needed.
- Ensure you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to.
Choosing Option 2 is a one-time decision that can’t be reversed once your claim is closed. Don’t make it alone.
Final Thoughts
Option 2 retraining can be a powerful tool for injured workers who want to take control of their future. But it’s not for everyone. Before making your decision, weigh the benefits and risks carefully and consult with professionals.
If you’re unsure, contact Emery | Reddy for a Free Case Review. We’ll help you make the best choice for your health, finances, and career.
