How to file a workers’ comp claim in California

Filing a workers’ comp claim while recovering from your injury can feel overwhelming. However, when you learn about which exact steps you need to take after your workplace accident, you can embrace the process better and safeguard your right to fair compensation.

Notify your employer

After your accident at work, you must inform your employer of your injury as soon as possible. While you can do this verbally, you can also write a formal accident report for better documentation.

You will have a period of 30 days to report your workplace accident. Once your employer becomes aware of your incident, they will give you a California workers’ comp claim form.

Seek medical care

After you report your accident, you must seek prompt medical attention for your injury or illness. You can go to your predesignated personal doctor or choose one from your employer’s approved MPN (Medical Provider Network) list of physicians.

It is vital to keep all your medical records, prescriptions and billing receipts in one place to ensure that they do not get misplaced.

Submit your claim form

After receiving proper treatment for your injury or medical condition, you need to fill out the “employee” section of your claim form. Make sure to write the date before or after your signature.

Keep your own copies and return the original form to your employer. Once your employer completes their section on your workers’ comp claim form, they will send this document to their insurer.

Await a decision

Your employer’s insurance company will have a period of 14 days to assess your claim and send you a letter to inform you of your claim’s status. If your claim is accepted, your medical expenses and wage loss benefits will be covered by your insurance.

However, if you receive a denial letter, you can challenge the insurer’s decision by appealing your case on your own or with the help of a workers’ compensation attorney.

By understanding how the workers’ comp claims process works in California, you can protect your rights and seek timely financial support for your hospital bills and other medical expenses.