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How to File Workers’ Compensation Claims for Work Injury

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If you’re injured at work, the last thing you want to worry about is how to pay your medical bills. Workers’ compensation is a system that works to benefit employees who are injured or become ill due to their job. Workers comp insurance is not part of a Business Owner’s Policy (BOP). It must be bought as a separate insurance policy.

This article will help you in understanding the workers’ compensation claims process. It will also provide tips on getting the most out of your claim.

What Is a Workers’ Comp Claim?

This claim is a formal request for benefits filed by an injured employee. It is usually filed with the employer’s workers’ compensation insurance carrier, but it can also be filed directly with the state Workers’ Compensation Board in some states.

Filing for a workers’ comp claim is to get financial assistance to cover lost wages and medical expenses caused by a work-related injury.

For example, sprains, strains and tears are the most common workplace injury, with 327,650 occurring in the U.S. in 2019. If your employees suffer one of these injuries, you as the employer are responsible for their compensation claim.

What Is the Workers’ Compensation Claims Process?

The workers’ compensation claims process can vary slightly from state to state, but some general steps are typically followed:

The Worker Must Notify Their Employer of the Injury Immediately

It is an important step because, in many states, the employer has a limited time to respond to the claim. For example, in California, an employee has just 30 days from the date of injury to give written notice to their employer.

If you don’t notify your employer of the injury in time, you may lose your right to compensation benefits. Notifying your employer can be as simple as verbally telling them about the injury. But it’s best to put it in writing, too. That way, you can document when you told your employer and what happened.

Provide the Right Documentation and Forms

You will be needed to fill out some paperwork after reporting your injury to your employer. Your employer should have the necessary forms for you to complete, but if not, you can find them online or through your state’s workers’ compensation board. Be sure to include as much detail as possible about how the injury occurred and the extent of your injuries.

You’ll also need to provide documentation from a medical professional confirming your injuries and treatment plan. It is important to make sure that you keep copies of all paperwork for your records. Once you’ve completed the necessary forms and gathered the required documentation, you’re ready to file your claim.

File Your Claim

You can file your compensation claim online, by mail, or in person. The process and required documentation may vary slightly depending on how you file.

If you’re filing online, you’ll likely need to create an account and log in to submit your claim. You may be able to upload supporting documentation electronically, or you may need to mail it in.

If you’re filing by mail, you’ll need to include specific documentation, which may vary by state. You can find out what’s required by contacting your state’s workers’ compensation office or checking the website of your state’s workers’ compensation board.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re an employee or employer, understanding the workers’ compensation claims process is important.  In case you have any doubt or questions about the claims process, don’t hesitate to contact a workers’ compensation company in your area.