If you’ve been hurt at work or developed a health condition because of your job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act. These benefits are designed to help you recover. Workers’ compensation benefits typically cover items such as medical expenses, lost income, and rehabilitation support.
What Should I Do First?
1. Notify Your Employer Immediately
Under Illinois law, you must report your injury or illness to your employer within 45 days of the incident — but the sooner, the better. Verbal notice is allowed, but written documentation is strongly recommended to avoid disputes later. Include details like when, where, and how the injury occurred.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Your employer must ensure you receive proper care. You have the right to choose your own doctor, though your options may be limited if your employer has a Preferred Provider Program (PPP). Regardless, the employer’s insurance is responsible for covering all reasonable and necessary medical treatment.
What Does Illinois Workers’ Comp Cover?
If your claim is approved, you may be eligible for the following benefits:
- Medical Benefits, including hospital visits, doctor appointments, therapy, and prescriptions
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits if you’re unable to work during your recovery
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) or Permanent Total Disability (PTD) if you experience lasting impairment
- Vocational rehabilitation if you need training or assistance to transition to a different type of work
The Illinois workers’ compensation system is no-fault, meaning you don’t have to prove your employer caused the injury — only that it occurred during the course of your employment. Still, claims can be denied or delayed by the insurance company if there’s missing documentation, medical disputes, or questions about how the injury occurred.
What Comes Next?
Navigating a workers’ compensation claim isn’t always straightforward. Even though the system is designed to help injured workers, the process involves technical requirements, strict deadlines, and decisions that may affect your access to care or long-term support.
To get the best outcome for your workerse’ comp case, it’s important that you clearly understand your rights and how each decision you make may shape your case.
We offer support at all stages of the process. Our team offers clear, informed guidance at every stage of the process—clarifying your rights, ensuring your benefits are properly handled, and advising you on settlement and hearing options under Illinois law.
The Illinois Hammer Is Here To Help With Your Workers’ Compensation Claims
If you’ve experienced a work-related injury or illness and are unsure what to do next, reach out to our team for a free consultation. Our experienced workers’ comp attorneys can answer your questions, explain your options, and help you move forward with confidence—whether that means resolving things quickly or preparing for a longer path to recovery.
