The Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner published a news release reminding insurers doing business in the state that they are required by law to notify the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) before issuing certain payments.

RCW 26.23.037 states that, within 10 days of opening a claim for bodily injury or wrongful death, workers’ compensation, or a claim under a life insurance policy, an insurer must communicate with the Division of Child Support to verify if the claimant owes child support debt.

If it is determined that the claimant owes child support, insurers should withhold from the payment of the claim the amount specified in the notice and remit that amount to the Department within 20 days. However, if the claimant has reasonable attorney fees, property damage, or medical costs, those are given priority over any withholding.