In Washington DC, you must make sure you file your claim for death benefits within one year of the passing of your loved one. Otherwise your claim will be barred if there is an objection made at the first claim hearing where all eligible parties were notified and given reasonable notice to attend. In some cases, the deadline is different, such as when the person entitled to compensation is a minor or is mentally incompetent. If you’re ever confused about the timeline or what you need to do to recover compensation that is owed to you, contact the lawyers at Lightfoot Law PLLC.