When a workplace injury occurs, concerns about its financial impact often loom large. Many individuals find themselves wondering, 'How can I track my workers' compensation check?' To answer this question, let's first explore the workers' compensation process in New York.

What Is The Eligibility Criteria for Workers' Compensation Benefits?

In New York, all businesses with more than two employees are legally required to provide workers' compensation insurance. To be eligible for these benefits, an employee must file a claim with the company's insurance provider. Acknowledgment of your workers' compensation claim may take several weeks, and if approved, payment may require additional time.

How To Tracking Workers' Compensation Claim?

For New York residents who have filed a workers' compensation claim, tracking its status is made convenient through online resources. Your employer or the insurance company managing your case can furnish updates on the processing of your payment. Several insurance companies offer the option to check the progress of your payment online.

The Workers' Compensation Board provides a dedicated webpage where claimants can monitor the status of their applications. This service, known as eCase, allows you to access your case file, provided you create an account. Within each folder, you'll find comprehensive details related to your claim and contact information for relevant parties. Access to these folders is restricted to those with a vested interest.

Another avenue to ascertain your claim's status is by contacting the workers' compensation insurance provider directly. Your claim is assigned a unique case number, which you can reference at any time. This allows the insurance company or adjuster to provide you with the necessary information.

How Long Does It Take To Receive Workers' Compensation Benefits?

In New York, there is a limit to the number of weeks an injured worker can receive workers' compensation. The duration is determined by the worker's potential earnings if they had been able to continue working.

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Workers' compensation provides disability pay for a range of 225 to 525 weeks. However, the number of weeks you are entitled to and the weekly amount you receive can vary based on your specific case. For an accurate estimate of the duration you can receive compensation, consider consulting a lawyer specializing in workers' compensation claims.

How Long Does It Take To Get Workers' Compensation Payments?

Once your claim is approved, your workers' compensation payments should start without significant delay. However, if your injury did not prevent you from working for more than 14 days, you will not receive compensation for the initial seven days of incapacity.

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These payments are typically disbursed on a schedule similar to your regular paycheck. If you were paid biweekly before, your workers' compensation payments will follow the same pattern. While every effort is made to ensure punctual payment, occasional delays may occur. Potential delays can be attributed to temporary issues with the United States Postal Service.

What Happens Post Claim?

Workers' compensation covers various aspects, including:

1. Medical Expenses: 

This includes costs associated with doctor visits, surgeries, and hospital stays.

2. Lost Income: 

Injured workers receive compensation for income they would have earned had they not been injured.

3. Ongoing Care: 

Some cases require extended medical treatment, such as physical therapy, which is covered by workers' compensation.

4. Funeral Costs: 

In the unfortunate event of an employee's death due to a work-related accident, workers' compensation may cover a portion of the funeral expenses.

Is A Workers' Compensation Attorney Necessary?

While not legally mandated, enlisting the help of a workers' compensation attorney can significantly enhance the likelihood of a favorable outcome. Though most workers' comp claims are approved, it does not guarantee that employees receive the full compensation they deserve. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts and may resort to deceptive tactics to persuade injured workers to accept inadequate compensation. A specialized workers' compensation attorney can help build a robust case, providing evidence of the extent of your injuries. Attorneys can also represent you in negotiations with the insurer, ensuring you receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to.

When a workplace accident occurs, the burden of medical expenses and related costs should not fall on your shoulders. For comprehensive guidance on tracking your workers' compensation check and related information, please visit the Workers' Compensation Board's website.