How to file a workers’ compensation claim?

Workers’ compensation benefits provide financial support following a work-related injury or illness. However, to obtain these benefits, you must follow the claim process. Benefits come from your employer’s workers’ comp insurance company, and a claim must be reviewed and granted – just like any other type of insurance benefit. If you have any hiccups along the way or have questions, reach out to a Garden Grove worker’s compensation lawyer right away.

Receiving the claim form

You must notify your employer about your injury or illness within 30 days of its onset, though it is best to inform them as soon as possible instead of waiting out the 30 days. Within one working day of your notification, your employer is required to mail or otherwise provide you with a workers’ compensation claim form. If you do not receive a form from your employer, you can access one online.

Completing the claim form

You will need to complete the section for the “employee” as thoroughly and accurately as possible. If you have questions about any answers, discuss them with a workers’ compensation lawyer.

Once you have completed your part of the form, give it back to your employer as soon as possible. If you must mail the form because you cannot go into work, make sure to use certified mail, so you receive a record of when you mailed it and when it was delivered to your employer. Always keep a copy of the form for your records, as well. If this form gets lost in the shuffle, it can jeopardize your benefits.

Your employer should complete the section for employers and send the claim form to its workers’ compensation insurance company. They should also send you a copy of the form with all the employer’s information filled out. Make sure to ask your employer for a copy if they do not voluntarily provide one.

Reviewing your claim

Workers’ compensation insurance companies usually have 14 days to inform you of your claim status by mail. If you do not hear anything, you might need to reach out to the insurer. Often, it is wise to have a workers’ compensation attorney handle all communications with the insurance company.

You might assume that you will have automatic coverage of your workplace injury or illness, as you should. Sadly, this is not always what happens. Workers’ compensation insurance companies can delay claims, make multiple requests for additional information, or deny the claim outright. Sometimes, insurance companies will not respond to claimants, leading to unnecessary delays. If you run into any obstacles, call an attorney if you haven’t already done so.

When your claim is granted, you should receive coverage of all your medical expenses, as well as payments for partial wage replacement while you are out of work due to your condition. Many people receive benefits quicker and easier with the right legal representation, so it never hurts to learn about your options from a law firm.

Reach out for a free case evaluation with a Garden Grove workers’ compensation lawyer as soon as possible.