Hurt at work and the claim was denied: what to do
Report the injury to your employer in writing right away; deadlines can be just days. Get medical care, tell the doctor it happened at work, and keep every record. Read the denial letter for the reason and appeal deadline, then file with your state workers’ compensation agency and ask for a hearing. In most states, punishing you for filing is illegal. Workers’ comp lawyers usually work on contingency, often with fees capped by the state.
Your checklist
- Report the injury in writing, fast
- Get care and say it happened at work
- Read why it was denied
- File with the state workers’ comp agency
- Know retaliation is illegal
- Talk to a workers’ comp lawyer
Rather read it? Here’s the whole thing.
Report it
Tell your employer in writing as soon as possible. States set deadlines, sometimes only days, and late reporting is a common reason for denials.
Get care
See a doctor and say the injury happened at work. Some states require you to use certain doctors at first. Keep every record and bill.
Why claims get denied
Late reporting, disputes about whether it happened at work, missing medical proof, or a pre-existing condition. The denial letter should give the reason and the appeal deadline.
Appeal
File with your state workers’ compensation agency (sometimes called a board or commission). You can usually ask for a hearing before a workers’ comp judge. Bring medical records, witness names, your injury report and pay records.
Your protections
In most states, it’s illegal for an employer to fire or punish you for filing a claim.
Getting help
Workers’ comp lawyers usually work on contingency, and many states cap their fees. Many offer a free first call.
Official sources, and where to look
[your state] workers compensation board[your state] deadline to report work injury
Common questions
What does workers’ comp pay for?
Usually medical care for the work injury and part of your lost wages while you can’t work. Some states also pay for permanent injuries and job retraining. More ›
Can I sue my employer instead?
Usually not; workers’ comp generally replaces lawsuits against your employer. You may be able to sue a third party, like an equipment maker. More ›
How long do I have to report a work injury?
It depends on your state, sometimes only days and often within about 30 days. Report it in writing as soon as possible. More ›
Why was my workers’ comp claim denied?
Common reasons include late reporting, disputes about whether it happened at work, missing medical evidence, or a pre-existing condition. Your denial letter should explain. More ›
How do I appeal a workers’ comp denial?
File with your state workers’ compensation agency by the deadline and ask for a hearing. Bring medical records, witnesses and your injury report. More ›
Can I be fired for filing a workers’ comp claim?
In most states, firing or punishing you for filing is illegal retaliation. Keep records and talk to a lawyer if it happens. More ›
Talk to a workers’ comp lawyer
Most work on contingency.
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Not yet reviewed by an expert. Last checked 2026-10-29. This is general help, not legal, medical or professional advice. Rules are different in every state.