To receive workers’ compensation benefits in Illinois, you must take several key steps: report your injury to your employer, get appropriate medical care, and file a claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC). Missing any of these steps — or handling them incorrectly — can delay your benefits or even cause your claim to be denied.
At The Illinois Hammer Injury Law Firm, we help injured workers take the right steps from day one. Here’s what you need to do to protect your rights and get the compensation you’re entitled to.
1. Notify Your Employer Right Away
Under Illinois law, you must report a workplace injury within 45 days of the incident. For occupational diseases or injuries that develop over time, you must report it as soon as you’re aware of the connection to your job.
You can report the injury verbally or in writing — but make sure the report is clear and documented. If possible, follow up with an email or written note confirming when and how the injury happened, and who you told.
Keep your own record of when, how, and to whom you reported the injury. If your employer later claims they weren’t notified, your notes can help protect your claim.
2. Don’t Sign Anything Without Legal Advice
Soon after reporting the injury, you may be contacted by your employer or their insurance company with forms to fill out or even a request for a recorded statement.
Be careful as some of these documents may contain fine print that limits your benefits or waives certain rights. Do not sign anything or give a recorded statement without first speaking to a workers’ compensation attorney.
We routinely review these documents for our clients to ensure they’re not unknowingly signing away their rights.
3. Stay in Touch About Your Medical Status
After your initial treatment, make sure your employer stays informed about your recovery. Provide updates on your restrictions, treatment plan, and whether you’re cleared for light duty or still unable to work.
Keeping this line of communication open helps prevent delays in wage replacement and ensures your care continues without interruption.
4. Meet All Legal Deadlines
Two key deadlines determine whether your claim can move forward:
- 45 days to report the injury to your employer
- 3 years from the date of injury — or 2 years from your last workers’ comp payment — to file a claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC)
Missing either deadline could cost you the ability to receive benefits.
We Help You Get It Right from the Start
Workers’ compensation law in Illinois can be confusing, especially when you’re in pain, out of work, and trying to recover. That’s where we come in.
At The Illinois Hammer Injury Law Firm, we guide injured workers through every step, making sure nothing gets missed and your rights are protected. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s make sure your case starts and stays on the right track.
