You can request a hearing by filing a demand for hearing with our Hearings Unit. You don't need to use our form, but we highly recommend it.

Requirements for your demand

Your demand needs to include a copy of the order or action you're contesting. The Hearings Unit is separate from our internal systems and other divisions, so they can't access this information unless you include it. 

You need to file your demand within 90 days of the order or action. If you don't, you'll waive your right to contest it.

Your demand needs to:

  • Be in writing
  • Explain how the action or order negatively affects you
  • Provide your reason for requesting relief
  • Include an email address 
  • Be delivered to our Tumwater office by email, mail, hand delivery, or fax

Your attorney or representative can sign and file the demand, but it also needs to include your contact information.  

Ways to file a demand and submit documents

Our Hearings Unit recommends electronically submitting demands, documents, and messages. They'll send all communications by email, including when serving legal orders or papers.    

Online

Contact our Hearings Unit online or email hearingsu@oic.wa.gov. 

Fax

Send faxes to 360-339-7061, Attn: Administrative Hearings Unit.

Mail

Administrative Hearings 
Office of the Insurance Commissioner 
P.O. Box 40255                  
Olympia, WA 98504-0255 

After you file a demand 

Our Hearings Unit will review your demand. If it's incomplete, they'll email you to ask for more information. If it's complete, they'll email you to confirm they received it and explain the next steps for your case.

If you file a demand before our action or order goes into effect, it won't go into effect until there's a final decision for your case.

Cases we don't handle

We don't hear cases about unemployment insurance or industrial insurance claims (also known as workers’ compensation). In Washington state, the Employment Security Department handles unemployment benefits, and the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries handles workers’ compensation claims. Contact these agencies if you have questions about these types of claims.