If it comes time to make a workers’ compensation claim, you hope that the process will be fast and efficient from start to finish. After all, you don’t want to wait around to receive the money you deserve. Unfortunately, there are times when workers’ compensation benefits are denied. In short, this means you are not receiving the money you need to make ends meet while you are out of work.

There are a variety of reasons for a denied workers’ compensation claim, including the following:

— If the employer can prove that the injury occurred away from work.

— If the injured party does not notify the employer of the injury in a timely manner.

— If the injured party does not receive immediate medical treatment.

— Lack of documentation in regards to showing that the injury is work related.

— Pre-existing condition.

— If the injury occurred while the person was under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

— If the injury occurred while the person was rough housing.

With all these points in mind, it is important to remember one thing: You are in charge of ensuring that you receive workers’ compensation benefits. Your employer may not want to pay, so you need to do whatever it takes to stop this from happening.

It is your responsibility to report your injury, receive medical advice, and file a workers’ compensation claim on time.

When you take all the right steps, you can avoid your workers’ compensation benefits from being denied. This will make it much easier to recover.

Source: Workers Comp Resource Center, “10 Reasons Why Workers Comp Benefits are Denied,” accessed Dec. 15, 2015