A workers’ compensation claim is not a lawsuit against an employer. A workers’ compensation claim is a request for benefits. After becoming injured on the job, you should immediately notify your employer. Your employer will be required to offer you a claim directly. Your employer will have no obligation to provide benefits until this form is completed.
Almost every state in the U.S. requires doctors, emergency rooms, and employers to have the forms needed to start the claims process. However, if you were not offered a claim form, you will be able to find one by contacting your Workers’ Compensation Office. When completing your claim form, you should only fill out the employee section and ensure that you sign and date the form. You should also make a copy of this claim form for your records.
The claim form should then be given to your employer once signed, either in person or mail. If mailing your claim form in, you must use certified mail with the requested return receipt. It is also essential that you file quickly because otherwise, your benefits may be delayed. After your employer receives the signed form from you, they should complete the claim form and forward it to the company’s workers’ compensation insurance company. Your employer should also provide you with a completed copy of the claim form. If you do not receive a copy of the completed claim form signed by your employer, you should request a copy for your records. The workers’ compensation insurance company should notify you within fourteen days by mail regarding the status of your claim. If you do not receive this notification, you should contact the insurance company without delay.