Understanding Workers’ Compensation In California (2025)

Who Qualifies for Workers’ Compensation in California?

California Labor Code requires businesses with at least one employee to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If your employer has workers’ comp coverage and you suffer an injury at work or a work-related illness, you may qualify for benefits.

How to Report a Workplace Injury & Submit a DWC-1 Claim Form

You must report the injury to your employer in writing within 30 days. From there, take the following steps:

• Download the DWC-1 claim form from the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) website
• Fill out the “Employee” section
• Give the form to your employer

Your employer will then fill out their section and send the claim to the insurance company.

Types of Benefits You Can Receive

Workers’ compensation in California covers the following benefits:

• Temporary wage replacement (usually two-thirds of your average weekly wage)
• Medical care
• Temporary disability benefits
• Permanent disability benefits
• Supplemental job displacement benefits
• Death benefits

Supplemental job displacement benefits assist with retraining if you have a permanent partial disability and must find a new career.

Deadlines & Statutory Time Limits You Must Follow

Workers’ compensation in California has two very important deadlines:

• Report your injury to your employer within 30 days
• File a workers’ compensation claim within one year

Although you have a year to file your DWC-1, it’s generally best to do so as soon as you reasonably can.

What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied or Delayed

If your claim is delayed or denied, you should contact a workers’ compensation lawyer right away. After a denial, you have 20 days to file a Petition for Reconsideration. If the denial was mailed to you, you have 25 days.

A lawyer can assist with your appeal. If your claim is delayed, your attorney can advocate for you to receive the benefits you deserve.

Your Rights During the Claim Process

You have the right to prompt medical care and the right to receive temporary disability payments if you’re unable to work. You also have the right to freedom from discrimination. If your rights are violated, you can file a complaint with the DIR.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Not all workers’ comp claims are approved without incident. If you encounter problems, a work injury lawyer can increase your chances of recovering compensation.

ConsumerShield can help you connect with the right attorney. Fill out our form below for a free case review!