How to file a workers’ comp claim in Illinois

In Illinois, over 90% of state employees are covered by the Workers’ Compensation Act. Under this law, employers must carry workers’ comp insurance for all their employees, including part-time workers.

This means that if you get into a work-related accident, you can file a claim to receive financial support for your medical costs and wage loss. To begin the process, here are the four steps you need to take after your accident at the workplace:

Inform your employer

After experiencing a workplace injury or illness, you must report your accident to your employer. While you will have a 45-day window to inform them of your accident, it is still important to act with urgency and do it as soon as possible.

However, if your illness develops gradually (e.g., occupational diseases), you will have 90 days from the date you become aware of your condition to report your accident.

Seek medical care

Once you inform your employer, they will submit your accident report with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC) and provide you with an approved list of doctors. Choose one from the list and inform them that your injury or illness is work-related.

If your condition causes you to miss at least three full days of work, your employer must begin compensating you for lost wages.

Submit your claim form

You must fill in your claim form and submit it to the IWCC electronically. If you are filing your workers’ comp claim without a lawyer, you will need to learn about the legal procedures that apply to your case.

Wait for a decision

If you receive a notice of approval, you will start receiving your workers’ comp benefits. However, if you receive a denial letter, you can challenge the decision by appealing your case. You may do this on your own or with the help of a lawyer.

Once you submit a written appeal with your supporting documents, an insurance adjuster will review them and inform you of a new decision.

By understanding the workers’ comp process in Illinois, you can safeguard your rights, receive timely medical care and file your claim with confidence.