Denied Workers' Comp Claim in NJ? - Appeals & Next Steps
If your New Jersey workers' comp claim was denied, you're not alone-and you're not out of options. Many valid injury claims are initially rejected by insurance carriers hoping workers will simply give up. At the Law Offices of Gregg A. Williams, we help injured employees fight back after a workers' comp denial and pursue the benefits they deserve.
Whether your denial was due to a paperwork issue, a disputed injury, or an uncooperative employer, our firm is here to help you appeal the decision and protect your right to compensation.
Why Was My Claim Denied?
There are several common reasons why a workers' comp claim might be denied in NJ, including:
- The employer claims the injury didn't happen at work
- The injury is labeled as a pre-existing condition
- You missed the deadline to report the injury
- You were terminated before filing
- Incomplete or missing medical documentation
- The insurer believes your injury doesn't require time off or treatment
These tactics are frustrating-but not uncommon. Don't assume the denial is final just because the insurance company says so.


Understanding the Denial Notice
If your claim is denied, the insurance carrier may send a formal denial letter or simply stop paying benefits. Either way, this is not the end of the road. You still have the right to appeal the workers' comp decision and present additional evidence.
If you're unsure why your claim was rejected, our attorneys can help interpret the denial, identify what's missing, and advise you on the best next step.
Appeals Process in NJ (Filing a Claim Petition)
To challenge a denied claim, you'll typically need to file a Claim Petition or request an Informal Hearing with the New Jersey Division of Workers' Compensation.
Here's how it works:
1. File a formal Claim Petition within two years of your injury or last benefit payment
2. Attend a pre-trial conference to try to resolve the dispute
3. If unresolved, the case proceeds to a formal hearing before a workers' comp judge
4. The judge will review medical evidence, testimony, and issue a decision
Our team manages this process from start to finish, ensuring deadlines are met and your case is presented clearly and aggressively.
If you haven't filed your official claim yet, start here.
How We Can Help Overturn a Denial
We've helped many injured workers reverse unjust claim denials. Our attorneys can:
- Gather additional medical reports or expert opinions
- Represent you at formal hearings and negotiations
- Identify any legal violations or bad-faith denials
- Help negotiate a fair settlement-even after a claim rejection
In some cases, we've secured backdated wage benefits and coverage for overdue medical bills. Don't let a technicality or vague reasoning rob you of what you're owed.
Can My Employer Retaliate for Filing a Claim?
New Jersey law prohibits retaliation against employees who file or appeal a workers' compensation claim. Your employer cannot legally fire, demote, or discipline you for exercising your rights under the law. If you suspect retaliation, we can discuss additional legal remedies.
Get Help Appealing a Denied Claim - Free Consultation
A denied claim doesn't mean you're out of luck-it just means the fight isn't over. Our workers' comp lawyers in New Jersey know how to handle denials, appeals, and complex hearings to get you the benefits you deserve.
Contact us now for a free case evaluation. You pay nothing unless we win.