How to File a Workers' Compensation Claim in New Jersey
If you were injured at work, filing a workers' comp claim in New Jersey may feel like just one more stressor during an already difficult time. But taking the right steps early can protect your right to medical care, wage replacement, and other critical benefits. At the Law Offices of Gregg A. Williams, we walk injured workers through the workers' comp claim process-ensuring no deadlines are missed and no forms go overlooked.
Whether you were hurt on a construction site in Newark or suffered repetitive strain at an office job in East Brunswick, we're here to help.
Report Your Injury Immediately
The first-and most important-step is to report your injury to your employer. Under New Jersey law, you have up to 90 days to notify your employer, but we recommend doing it as soon as possible. Written notice is best, even if your employer says verbal notice is fine.
Tell your supervisor, HR department, or whoever is responsible for workplace injuries. If the injury developed over time (like carpal tunnel or back strain), notify your employer when you first connect it to your job duties.
Seek Authorized Medical Treatment
In New Jersey, your employer or their workers' compensation insurance carrier has the right to choose the doctor you see for treatment. If you go to your own doctor without permission, your bills may not be covered.
You must follow the company's process-usually by contacting the insurance adjuster or a designated treatment provider. If it's an emergency, get care at the ER right away and notify your employer as soon as possible afterward.
Filing the Official Claim
Notifying your employer is only the first step. If your injury is serious, ongoing, or your benefits are denied, you may need to file a formal Claim Petition with the New Jersey Division of Workers' Compensation. Here's how:
1. Fill out the Claim Petition Form (available on the NJ DWC website)
2. Submit it to the correct county office, based on where you live or where the injury occurred
3. File within two years of the injury-or the last payment of compensation, whichever is later
The claim petition gives you the right to request a hearing before a judge, especially if there's a dispute about your benefits. This is separate from simply reporting the injury to your employer.
After Filing - What to Expect
Once your claim is reported and the insurer is notified, they should begin paying benefits if your injury keeps you out of work. You may be entitled to:
Temporary disability payments (usually 70% of your wages while you can't work)
Medical treatment coverage
Ongoing benefits if your injury results in permanent disability
Unfortunately, insurance companies often deny valid claims or delay payment. If you're not receiving benefits-or they suddenly stop-learn more about how to fight a denied claim.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Even a small mistake can hurt your claim. Here are some missteps we help clients avoid:
- Failing to report the injury promptly
- Going to an unauthorized doctor without approval
- Missing deadlines to file a formal claim
- Giving a recorded statement to an adjuster without legal advice
If your claim is complex, your injury is serious, or your employer is uncooperative, it's time to talk to a lawyer.
How We Assist with Filing
We make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. When you work with our firm, we'll:
- Handle all paperwork, including claim petitions and correspondence with insurers
- Ensure you meet all notice and filing deadlines
- Monitor your benefits and fight for full compensation
- Represent you at any necessary hearings or appeals
We've helped injured workers across Middlesex County and beyond get the benefits they're entitled to, even in tough or denied cases.
Start with a Free Consultation
Filing a workers' comp claim doesn't have to be overwhelming. We're here to explain your rights, help with every step of the process, and take over the paperwork so you can focus on healing.
We don't charge any fees unless we recover benefits for you. Hablamos Español. Contact us today to get started.
