Washington law
Long-Term Disability & ERISA Laws in Washington.
Long-term disability (LTD) insurance provided through employer-sponsored group plans is generally governed by the federal Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). ERISA preempts most state-law remedies for denied LTD claims and channels disputes into federal court under 29 U.S.C. § 1132(a)(1)(B). LTD plans purchased individually (non-employer) and some governmental/church plans are not ERISA-governed and proceed under Washington insurance law — including the Insurance Fair Conduct Act and common-law bad faith — in Washington state court.
Last verified: 2026-04-20
State law
Key Washington Statutes
Federal ERISA enforcement provision governing most employer-sponsored LTD disputes. Claims for benefits proceed on the administrative record with limited remedies.
Governs Washington-law LTD disputes (individual policies and non-ERISA plans), including IFCA treble-damages remedies.
State law
Official Sources
Not Legal Advice
This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Washington.
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