3 tips for making a successful workers’ comp claim

If you have experienced a work-related injury, your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance policy may offer important benefits. In addition to coverage for medical bills, you might be able to receive compensation for time off work while you recover.

However, to receive WC benefits, it is essential that you take certain basic steps toward documenting and seeking treatment for your injuries.

1. Report your injury quickly

Fully reporting your injury to your employer as soon as possible is essential if you need to access workers’ comp benefits. Make sure to let either a direct supervisor, manager or on-site nurse of the incident, preferably in both verbal and written form.

2. Complete the workers’ compensation claim form

Once you have reported your injury, your employer should provide you with a claim form. Make sure to complete this paperwork as soon as possible. Required information may include a description of the date, severity and nature of your injuries, a list of other parties involved in the accident and details about how your injury impacts your ability to work and continue your usual daily activities.

3. Visit an approved medical provider

To remain eligible for WC, you will need to seek medical treatment through a provider approved by your employer. If you visit a doctor who is not part of your employer’s approved provider list, you may not be able to seek medical coverage for work-related injuries.

Workers’ compensation provides essential benefits for employees experiencing a job-related injury. However, you may not be able to access these benefits if you wait too long to report the incident, fail to seek appropriate medical care or fail to communicate with your employer about your injury.