Immediate Steps After an Injury
Notify your employer of the injury in writing within 45 days, then obtain a copy of the employer's First Report of Injury (FROI) and any medical records related to the incident.
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Gather Required Documentation
Collect the completed FROI, medical reports, doctor's notes, and any witness statements. You'll also need proof of wages, such as recent pay stubs, to calculate benefits.
Complete the Claim Forms
Fill out the Illinois Workers' Compensation Claim Form (Form WC‑1) and the Employer's Report of Injury (Form WC‑2). Both can be downloaded from the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission (IWCC) website or obtained from the employer's HR department.
Submit the Claim
Send the completed forms and supporting documents to the IWCC within 90 days of the injury. Use certified mail or the IWCC's online filing portal to ensure proof of delivery.
What Happens After Submission
The IWCC will assign a case number and may request additional information. An adjudicator will review the claim, and the employer's insurer will be notified of the pending case.
Potential Outcomes
If approved, you'll receive medical benefits and wage replacement based on Illinois law. If denied, you can request a hearing before the IWCC within 30 days of the denial notice.
Key Deadlines to Remember
| Action | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Notify employer | Within 45 days |
| File claim with IWCC | Within 90 days |
| Request hearing after denial | Within 30 days |