What Is a Claim Form (DWC-1) in a California Workers’ Compensation Case?

In California, the Claim Form (DWC-1) is the official document an injured worker uses to notify their employer of a work-related injury or illness and to start the workers’ compensation process. Filing this form is a required step to receive benefits, including medical treatment, temporary disability payments, and permanent disability compensation.

When Should You File the DWC-1 Claim Form?

If you are injured on the job or diagnosed with a work-related illness, you should file the DWC-1 form as soon as possible, ideally within 30 days of the injury. Delaying could lead to a denial of benefits or limit your access to necessary medical care.

Your employer is legally required to provide you with the DWC-1 form within one working day after learning about your injury.

How to Complete the DWC-1 Form

The claim form asks for basic information, including:

• Your name and contact information
• Date and location of the injury
• Description of how the injury occurred
• A list of affected body parts

Once you complete the employee portion of the form:

1. Return it to your employer—in person or by certified mail.
2. The employer then completes their section and submits the form to their insurance carrier.
3. You should receive a copy of the completed form, which serves as your official claim.

What Happens After You File the Claim Form?

After your employer receives the DWC-1:

• You are eligible for up to $10,000 in medical treatment while the claim is under review.
• The insurance company has up to 90 days to investigate and accept or deny the claim.
• If they do not respond within that time, the claim is presumed accepted by law.

What If You Need Help With the DWC-1 Form?

Filling out the DWC-1 claim form may seem straightforward, but errors or missing details can lead to delays or denials. If you are unsure how to complete the form, or if your employer refuses to provide it, it is important to get legal help.

Do You Need Legal Help With a Workers’ Compensation Claim?

The Law Offices of Norman J. Homen helps injured workers at every stage of the claims process, starting with the DWC-1 form. If you have been injured at work and need help filing your claim or dealing with delays, contact us today for a free consultation.