California’s workers’ compensation system is essential to the state labor infrastructure. Workers’ compensation allows injured workers to receive direct benefits to help pay for lost wages, medical bills, and more. However, not all of California’s workers qualify for workers’ compensation. The following sections will cover the qualifications for filing a workers’ compensation claim in California and who don’t allow access to its benefits system.
Disclaimer
Before we continue, it is imperative to know that making a fraudulent workers’ compensation claim is a felony offense subject to up to five years in prison or a fine of up to $50,000 or double the value of the fraud, whichever is greater, or by both imprisonment and fine. By no means is the information within this post encouraging anyone to submit a workers’ compensation form under the premise of fraud or an intent to submit a fraudulent workers’ compensation claim. If you have any suspicions about your eligibility to file a claim, we recommend you speak with one of our expert worker compensation attorneys to discuss your situation.
California Workers’ Compensation Qualifications
In California, the workers’ compensation process can be long and complex. However, qualifying for workers’ compensation is easier than you might think. California’s workers’ compensation system connects your injury or illness with your place of employment. According to state law, businesses must obtain workers’ compensation insurance in California. If your work has workers’ compensation insurance, you should have access to the state’s workers’ compensation benefits system. One must fulfill the following requirements to be eligible for workers’ compensation.
- You must be an employee. If you’re not classified as an employee but instead an independent contractor, you may only be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits if your employer has misclassified your employment status.
- Your injury or illness must be work-related. If your injury or illness does not arise out of or occur as a result of your employment, you may not be able to receive workers’ compensation for this injury or illness.
- Under state law, your employer should not be excluded from the workers’ compensation benefits classification. These excluded occupations may vary from state to state and on a case-by-case basis. Still, business owners, federal employees, and independent contractors are generally excluded from the state-run workers’ compensation system.
In California, the workers’ compensation process can be long and complex. However, qualifying for workers’ compensation is easier than you might think. As long as you have met the previously stated requirements, you may be able to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. However, if you still have questions about your ability to file a claim. Or, if you are unsure of your eligibility for workers’ compensation, it is recommended that you get advice from one of our expert California workers’ compensation systems at Sacramento Workers’ Compensation Attorneys, P.C.
If you would like to take advantage of your FREE no-obligation consultation, please give us a call or visit our website to chat directly with an attorney.