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Significant Updates to Washington's Stay at Work Program in 2025
Written by Logan Gillihan, ROII Claim Representative
Stay at Work is a return-to-work incentive program L&I offers to employers who accommodate an employee’s work restrictions by offering doctor-approved modified duty. Find out more at https://www.lni.wa.gov/claims/for-employers/employer-incentives/stay-at-work.
Washington state is implementing notable changes to its Stay at Work program, effective January 1, 2025. These updates are designed to enhance injured workers' support and encourage employer participation. Here's an overview of the key changes:
New Provisions for Workers with a Date of Injury on or after January 1, 2025
Extended Wage Reimbursement Period: The maximum wage reimbursement period per claim will increase from 50% of 66 days to 50% of 120 days, offering extended financial support.
Increased Wage Reimbursement Amount: The maximum wage reimbursement per claim will increase from $10,000 to $25,000, providing a greater limit of reimbursement for employers.
Increased Training Reimbursement Amount: The maximum training reimbursement per claim will increase from $1,000 to $2,000. Training includes tools like Rosetta Stone, safety certification, and purchased technical skills training.
Enhanced Clothing Reimbursement: The maximum reimbursement for work-related clothing will increase from $400 to $1,000 per claim.
Improved Tool and Equipment Coverage: The reimbursement for tools and equipment will increase from $2,500 to $5,000, supporting necessary work-related items.
Revised Continuous Employment Incentive (Preferred Worker Benefits): The one-time incentive payment for continuous employment without wage reduction for 12+ months will now be a flat $25,000, regardless of the worker's wages.
Work Approval Clarification (Preferred Worker Benefits): It's important to note that while work must be approved under the program, it doesn’t have to be medical approved by the injured worker’s provider. This aims to streamline the process for all parties involved.
Significance of These Changes
These enhancements represent a significant commitment to supporting injured workers and facilitating their return to the workforce. The increased financial support and extended coverage periods aim to reduce the economic impact of workplace injuries on both employees and employers.
Utilizing the New Benefits
We encourage all eligible participants to take full advantage of these improved benefits. As an employer, these changes offer substantial additional support to aid in recovery and maintain employment. As an employer, you pay into these benefits through your premiums, so please use them to get some money back!
Preparing for 2025
As we approach January 1, 2025, it's advisable for both employers and employees to familiarize themselves with these new provisions. Understanding how these changes might affect workplace policies and individual situations will be beneficial for all parties involved.
Please note that these changes apply to workers with a date of injury on or after January 1, 2025. If you have any questions about how these updates might affect you or your business, please get in touch with your ROII Claim Representative for more information.
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