How to File a Workers' Compensation Claim in New Orleans
To file a workers' compensation claim in New Orleans, report the injury to your employer promptly, get medical care as directed, and complete the official claim forms with the Louisiana Workforce Commission (LWC). Coverage applies to work‑related injuries and occupational diseases; you generally must file a claim within one year of the injury or last exposure. Below are the key steps, deadlines, and what to expect next.
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1. Notify Your Employer
As soon as possible after a work injury or diagnosis, tell your supervisor or employer in writing (email or note). Include the date, time, location, and a brief description of what happened. Under Louisiana law, you generally must report the injury within 30 days to preserve benefits. Keep a copy of the notice and any read receipts or acknowledgments.
Notice Deadline and Evidence
| Item | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Report Deadline | 30 days from injury or awareness | Louisiana Revised Statutes |
| Claim Filing Deadline | 1 year from injury or last exposure | LWC Practice & Procedure |
| Employer/Insurer Response Time | 14 days to acknowledge and begin investigation | LWC guidelines |
2. Seek Medical Care
See an authorized treating physician as soon as possible. If it's an emergency, get care immediately; for nonemergencies, your employer or insurer should provide a network provider. Follow all treatment plans and keep records of visits, prescriptions, and missed work. You may need a Workers' Compensation Claim Form (LWC Form 103) completed by your doctor for wage loss benefits.
Medical Documentation Checklist
- Dated medical records showing diagnosis and treatment
- Provider notes linking injury to work
- Records of any missed work and lost wages
- Names and contact details of all treating providers
3. Complete the Claim Forms
File a claim with the Louisiana Workforce Commission. Use LWC Form 103 (Claim for Compensation) or the online portal via the LWC website. Provide details such as your personal information, employer details, injury description, dates, medical treatment, and wage information. Submit a signed copy to your employer and keep one for yourself.
Where to File
- Online: Louisiana Workforce Commission eServices
- By mail: LWC regional office serving New Orleans
- In person: If needed, visit an LWC office for assistance
4. Cooperate with the Investigation
The insurer will investigate, which may include contacting your employer and medical providers. Respond promptly to requests for additional information. You can choose your own authorized physician after the first designated provider. If benefits are denied, you'll receive a denial letter with reasons and instructions for appeal.
5. Understand Benefit Types and Limits
Workers' compensation in New Orleans typically covers medical expenses, temporary total disability (wage replacement), temporary partial disability, and permanent impairment benefits. Mileage may be reimbursed for travel to authorized medical appointments. Death benefits may apply in fatal cases. Benefit amounts depend on average weekly wage and the nature of the impairment.
| Benefit Type | What It Covers | Typical Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Benefits | Reasonable and necessary care | Related to the work injury |
| Temporary Total Disability | Two-thirds of average weekly wage | While unable to work |
| Permanent Impairment | Scheduled loss payments | Based on injury and schedule |
6. If Your Claim Is Denied
You can request a conference with the LWC and, if needed, a hearing before an administrative law judge. File your appeal within the timeframes provided in the denial notice. Consider consulting a workers' compensation attorney, especially for complex denials or disputes about medical or wage issues.