What the Trust Is and Who It Covers
The Puget Sound Workers Compensation Trust is a state‑run fund that provides benefits to employees who suffer work‑related injuries or illnesses when their employer lacks sufficient workers' compensation insurance. It applies to employers in Washington's Puget Sound region who are uninsured, under‑insured, or have had their coverage revoked.
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Eligibility Criteria
To receive benefits, a claimant must:
- Be employed by a covered employer in the Puget Sound area.
- Suffer an injury or occupational disease arising out of employment.
- File a claim within the statutory deadline (generally three years from injury).
Eligibility does not depend on the employer's size, but the employer must be identified as a trust‑eligible entity by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.
Types of Benefits Provided
The trust pays for medical treatment, wage replacement, and, in some cases, vocational rehabilitation. Benefits are comparable to those under standard workers' compensation, though payment limits may differ based on the trust's funding.
How to File a Claim
Claimants should follow these steps:
Claims can be filed online via the DLI portal, which optimizes the process for mobile users.
Recent Changes and Funding Status
Funding for the trust fluctuates with employer compliance and state budget allocations. Recent legislative updates have increased oversight, requiring annual financial audits and public reporting of trust expenditures. These measures aim to ensure sufficient resources for claimants.
Comparison with Standard Workers Compensation
| Aspect | Standard Workers Comp | Puget Sound Trust |
|---|---|---|
| Funding Source | Employer premiums | State‑allocated fund & employer penalties |
| Eligibility | All insured employers | Uninsured/under‑insured employers in Puget Sound |
| Benefit Limits | Set by law, generally higher | May be lower, based on trust reserves |