How to File a Workers’ Comp Claim Step by Step

Getting hurt at work can turn your whole routine upside down. One moment you’re focused on your job, and the next you’re dealing with pain, paperwork, and a lot of uncertainty. Workers’ compensation is meant to protect you in moments like this, but the process can feel confusing if you’ve never done it before. Knowing what steps to take makes a huge difference. It helps you stay calm, protect your rights, and get the support you need to recover.

Alpharetta, Georgia, is a busy and growing city known for its strong business community, technology companies, and active workforce. From office employees to construction crews, healthcare workers to retail staff, people here keep the city moving. With so many different jobs, workplace injuries can happen in many ways. If you’re injured on the job in this area, working with an Alpharetta, Georgia Workers' Comp Lawyer can help you understand your options and make sure your claim is handled correctly from the start.

This guide will walk you through how to file a workers’ comp claim step by step. No complicated language. No legal maze. Just clear, simple actions you can take to protect yourself and move forward with confidence.

Steps to File a Workers’ Comp Claim

Step 1: Report the Injury Right Away

Tell your employer as soon as you get hurt. Georgia law gives you 30 days to report a work injury, but waiting even a few days can cause problems. Under O.C.G.A. § 34-9-80, failure to give timely notice can hurt your right to benefits.

Report the injury in writing if possible. Include:

• Date and time of injury

• Where it happened

• How it happened

• Body parts affected

Keep a copy for your records.

Step 2: Get Medical Care from an Approved Doctor

Your employer must provide a list of approved doctors, called a panel of physicians. Georgia law requires you to choose from this list. This rule comes from O.C.G.A. § 34-9-201.

If you see your own doctor without permission, workers’ comp may not pay for it.

When you see the approved doctor:

• Be clear about your symptoms

• Explain how the injury happened

• Follow treatment instructions

Medical records become a major part of your claim.

Step 3: File a Claim with the State

Your employer should file a report, but you should also protect yourself by filing your own claim.

In Georgia, you file Form WC-14 with the State Board of Workers’ Compensation. The deadline is one year from the date of injury under O.C.G.A. § 34-9-82.

You can file:

• Online

• By mail

• By fax

Always keep proof of submission.

Step 4: Track Your Benefits

Workers’ comp can cover:

• Medical bills

• Partial wage replacement

• Travel costs to medical visits

If you miss more than seven days of work, you may receive weekly payments. These usually equal two-thirds of your average weekly wage, capped by state limits under O.C.G.A. § 34-9-261.

Check each payment, because errors can happen.

Step 5: Follow Work Restrictions

If your doctor gives you light-duty limits, share them with your employer. If your job offers modified work and you refuse it, your benefits may stop. Always stay within medical restrictions. Pushing too hard can hurt your health and your claim.

Step 6: Keep Records

Simple tracking makes a big difference. Keep:

• Medical visit notes

• Work restriction forms

• Pay stubs

• Mileage logs

• Emails with your employer

Use a folder or phone notes. Organization protects you.

Watch for Common Problems

Claims often stall because of:

• Missed deadlines

• Seeing the wrong doctor

• Incomplete forms

• Gaps in treatment

Small mistakes can cost you weeks or months of benefits.

Key Takeaways

Follow these steps to file a worker’s comp claim:

1. Report the injury fast

2. Use an approved doctor

1. File Form WC-14

2. Track your payments

3. Follow work limits

4. Keep all records

5. Avoid delays and errors