630-912-5702
Schedule Appointment Now
FMCO Law | Attorneys At Law

Case Evaluation | 630-912-5702

What To Do If Your Workers’ Comp Claim Is Denied

Last updated on May 22, 2025

Receiving a denial after filing your workers’ compensation claim can be frustrating, but it need not mean you are out of options. In Illinois, you have the right to appeal the decision through the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC). Understanding the appeal process and taking the proper steps can improve your chances of securing the benefits you deserve.

Before you file an appeal, make certain you understand the reason your claim was denied by reviewing the denial letter carefully. Common reasons for denied workers’ compensation claims include:

  • Insufficient evidence proving the injury is work-related
  • Missed deadlines for reporting the injury or filing the claim
  • Discrepancies in medical records or employer disputes

Once you understand the reason for the denial, you can take steps to strengthen your case. To challenge the denial, you must file an appeal with the IWCC. This complex process includes:

  • Gathering additional evidence: Collect medical records, witness statements and employment documentation to support your claim.
  • Submitting an application for Adjustment of Claim: This must be filed with the IWCC within three years of the injury or two years from the last compensation payment.
  • Preparing for the arbitration hearing: The IWCC assigns an arbitrator to review your case. You will need to present evidence proving your eligibility for benefits.
  • Appealing further if necessary: If the arbitrator denies your claim, you can appeal to a three-person panel of IWCC commissioners. If needed, further appeals can be made to the Illinois Circuit Court and Appellate Court.

As you can see, navigating the appeals process can be a complicated undertaking. Our experienced and knowledgeable workers’ compensation attorneys can help ensure your claim is properly presented and supported. A denied claim does not have to be the final word. When you understand the process and take prompt action, you can fight for the benefits you deserve.

Workers injured on the job in Illinois or while working for an Illinois employer are entitled to receive workers’ compensation benefits, but many initial claims are denied. The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission strictly regulates the process for approving medical treatment, weekly cash benefits and lump-sum settlements, with many initial claims denied strictly on technicalities.

Request a case evaluation. There are no attorneys’ fees if your claim is not approved.

If you have had your initial Illinois workers’ comp claim denied, don’t give up. Talk to an attorney at FMCO Law. We offer a case evaluation to evaluate your workers’ compensation denied claims appeal and explain your options.

What We Can Do For You

We offer a full range of services, including:

  • Investigating the accident, injury or illness related to your claim
  • Helping you get medical care through an approved medical provider
  • Collecting appropriate records and reports for a successful appeal
  • Working with you through the appeal hearing process

From offices in Chicago and Geneva, our firm represents clients filing for workers’ compensation claims in the greater Chicago metropolitan area and northern Illinois. Call us to schedule a case evaluation with one of our experienced Chicago attorneys.

No matter where you are in the process, we can help you with every component of your Illinois workers’ compensation claim, including:

Experienced Workers’ Compensation Insurance Benefits Lawyers

Call us at 630-912-5702 or use our convenient email contact form to arrange a case evaluation. Our office hours in Chicago and Geneva are from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays. Evening and weekend appointments may be available by special arrangement. If you cannot travel to our offices, we are often able to meet with you in your home, hospital room, office or another convenient location.