Although many people know about workers’ compensation in Atlanta, few know about the qualification process. In fact, some people qualify for it and don’t even realize it. Read on to find out how to qualify for workers’ compensation.

What is Workers’ Compensation?

You’ve probably heard the term, but might not fully understand what it means. Workers’ compensation involves getting money from your employer for a work-related injury. In Georgia, that money covers the cost of your medical expenses and your missed wages.

In order for you to be eligible for workers’ compensation in Atlanta, you need to qualify. Specifically, you need to be injured or become sick in your place of work. Here are a few basic eligibility requirements:

• You are an employee
• The injury or illness you experienced occurred at work
• Your employer has workers’ compensation insurance
• You reported your injury before the deadline and you filed your claim before the deadline

The Qualification Process for Workers’ Compensation in Atlanta

If you are eligible for workers’ compensation in Atlanta, you need to go through the qualification process. By following these steps, you can get your benefits as stress-free as possible:

1. Report your injury to your supervisor immediately

If you don’t report your injury to your supervisor, you won’t be eligible for benefits. As soon as you injure yourself or become ill, you should contact your supervisor. Notify her of your situation, and that puts your incident on the record. When an insurance company views your claim, they will see that you did have a work-related incident.

Although you have up to 30 days to notify your employer of an accident, you shouldn’t waste time. The sooner your report the injury or illness, the better. It can speed up your claim.

2. Determine if you meet eligibility requirements

This step might seem obvious, but it’s important. Before you file, you should consider your eligibility requirements. Consider the definition of workers’ compensation. Do you meet all of the requirements?

One of the most important requirements is the deadline. If you wait too long to file your claim, you lose the rights to your benefits. Every state has unique laws regarding filing deadlines. In Georgia, you need to file your claim within a year of the incident.

You should keep in mind that there are exceptions to the deadline. If you miss the deadline, you should speak with a lawyer to find out whether or not you are still eligible.

3. File your claim

According to the State Board of Workers’ Compensation, you need to fill out and file a WC-14 form. In addition to sending the form to the Board, you should also send a copy of it to your employer and to your employer’s insurance carrier. Be sure to carefully fill out the form, or you risk the denial of your claim.

4. Seek Assistance

An on-the-job illness or injury is stressful enough. Between lost wages, medical bills, and pain, you have your hands full. Adding a workers’ compensation claim to your list of troubles can make life more stressful.

Fortunately, you don’t need to handle everything on your own. If you’re overwhelmed, contact a lawyer who specializes in workers compensation in Atlanta. He can help you with your claim and help you get the benefits you deserve.