Electronic Adjudication Management System (EAMS): A Guide for Injured Workers
The Electronic Adjudication Management System (EAMS) is California’s case management system for handling workers’ compensation disputes. It is used by the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC), judges, attorneys, claims administrators, and other parties to file documents, schedule hearings, and track case activity.
While injured workers do not file directly into EAMS, it plays a central role in how their case is processed and reviewed by the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB).
What Is EAMS?
EAMS is a paperless electronic system that was created to streamline the workers’ compensation adjudication process. It allows for more efficient case tracking and reduces delays in processing claims.
All formal workers’ compensation disputes—such as denied claims, settlement hearings, or benefit disagreements—are entered and tracked in EAMS.
Who Uses EAMS?
EAMS is primarily used by:
- The Division of Workers’ Compensation and WCAB judges
- Attorneys for injured workers and defendants
- Claims administrators and insurance companies
- Interpreters, lien claimants, and other service providers
Injured workers who are not represented by an attorney can still have their cases entered in EAMS through forms submitted to the WCAB district office.
What Types of Documents Are Filed in EAMS?
EAMS is used to manage and file official documents, including:
- Applications for adjudication of claim
- Declarations of readiness (DOR)
- Settlement agreements
- Trial briefs and hearing minutes
- Medical records and evaluations
- Notices of hearings or orders
All of these documents become part of the injured worker’s official case file.
How Does EAMS Affect Injured Workers?
While most injured workers do not interact directly with EAMS, the system affects how quickly and efficiently their case moves forward. It allows judges to review evidence, schedule hearings, and issue decisions more efficiently.
If you are represented by an attorney, your legal team handles all filings and monitoring in EAMS. If you are not represented, you can still access your case information or file documents by contacting the DWC or visiting a WCAB district office.
How to Check the Status of a Case in EAMS
The DWC provides a public search tool known as the EAMS Public Information Case Search, where anyone can check the status of a case using the case number or the injured worker’s name. This tool allows workers to see upcoming hearings, case activity, and filings.
This system does not provide access to confidential documents, but it is useful for tracking the progress of a claim once it is filed with the WCAB.
Questions About Your Workers’ Compensation Case?
If you are unsure whether your case has been properly filed or you are waiting too long for a hearing or decision, the Law Offices of Norman J. Homen can help. We guide injured workers through every step of the California workers’ compensation process, including case filings, hearings, and settlements. Contact us today for a free consultation.
