(1) If the injured worker or beneficiary elects to seek damages from the third person, notice of the election must be given to the department or self-insurer using an electronic or nonelectronic method by which the notice can be tracked or the delivery can be confirmed. If an action is filed by the injured worker or beneficiary, a copy of the complaint must be mailed to the department or self-insurer using an electronic or nonelectronic method by which the notice can be tracked or the delivery can be confirmed.
(2) A return showing service of the notice on the department or self-insurer shall be filed with the court but shall not be part of the record except as necessary to give notice to the defendant of the lien imposed by RCW 51.24.060(2).