How To Start a Workers’ Comp Case?
So you’ve gotten hurt at work and made the decision to file a worker’s comp case.
AWESOME! But what now?
Some of the most frequently asked questions by people who have gotten to this point are, How do I start a worker’s comp case? How do I file it? Where do I even begin?
Relax. Continue reading to find out exactly what you need to do to start a Workers Comp case.
The Internet Is Your Friend
The first step is to visit the Illinois Worker’s Compensation Commission’s Case Management Forms. Just open a browser and click the link to go directly to the forms you need.
Next, once you have entered the website, click the FORMS button, and then look to find the link for CASE MANAGEMENT FORMS. Click that link.
Once you are there, you are looking for FORM IC01: Application for Adjustment Claim. Click that link and TADA! You’ve found one of the most helpful resources for getting your claim started online!
Now, you can download the form in either Word or Adobe PDF versions. This is completely up to you.
Your next option is to either fill it out on screen or print it and fill it out. Do what you feel the most comfortable with. But, if you don’t think you can write very, very legibly, you might want to stick to filling it out on the computer.
Helpful Hints
To make things even easier, they’ve included a set of guidelines for individuals filing WITHOUT AN ATTORNEY. Not only will it tell you EXACTLY what you need to do to start a case but also how to request a trial and all that important stuff in a Workers Comp case.
Once you have filled in your forms, complete the Proof of Service to show that you have sent or delivered a NOTARIZED copy of the application to your employer. The notary is swearing UNDER OATH that you have given your employer a copy of this.
I always ask people to do SIX COPIES of these – Three copies will go to IWCC, the defendant or the respondent gets a copy, and I recommend that you keep two copies for yourself.
Make it Official
After you have filled out all the required paperwork, take your copies to the courthouse to file your claim.
They’ll make some copies, put them on file and now you’ve gotten an OFFICIAL file number. This number will help you look up your case if you ever need to ask questions about it.
There are five locations in Illinois to file your application: Chicago (by far the busiest office), Collinsville, Peoria, Rockford, and Springfield. Call first to make sure they are open before you head down there.
I hope this information was helpful for you and as always, please feel free to give me a holler if you have any questions. Now go get your claim started!
What A Lawyer Can Do In Your Case
Filing a workers' compensation case can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At The Law Office of Scott D. De Salvo, we are dedicated to helping injured workers understand their rights and obtain the benefits they deserve. Our experienced team is here to guide you through each step of the process and ensure your case is handled with the care it deserves. In addition to workers' compensation, we also provide support for slip and fall cases, dog bite injuries, and medical malpractice claims.
Take the first step toward securing your future—contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you achieve the justice and compensation you need to move forward.
"Hiring Scott was one of the best moves I have made in my life....5 star first class act who really knows his stuff."
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