Filing a workers’ compensation claim in Arizona is the first step toward receiving medical care and wage replacement benefits after a workplace injury. The process is straightforward, but missing a form or deadline can delay or jeopardize your claim. This guide walks through each step so you know exactly how to begin.
Step 1: Report the Injury to Your Employer
Arizona law requires injured workers to notify their employer as soon as possible. This can be verbal or written, but written notice provides documentation in case of disputes.
Your employer must then submit an Employer’s Report of Injury to the insurance carrier.
Step 2: Get Medical Treatment
See a doctor as soon as you can. Tell the provider the injury happened at work so they document it correctly. Medical records play a major role in determining whether your claim is accepted. You may choose your own doctor unless your employer participates in a designated provider program or is self-insured.
Step 3: File the Workers’ Report of Injury (Form 407)
This is the form injured workers submit to the Industrial Commission of Arizona (ICA). It officially starts your claim.
The form can be completed online or on paper. You’ll provide:
- Your personal information
- Employer details
- How the injury occurred
- Date and time of injury
- Parts of the body injured
- Medical providers you’ve seen
Submitting this form sooner rather than later helps avoid delays.
Step 4: Your Doctor May File Their Physician’s Report of Injury
Your doctor may also submit a separate report to the ICA. This document includes:
- Diagnosis
- Treatment plan
- Work restrictions
- Whether the injury appears work-related
The insurer uses both your form and your doctor’s form to evaluate your claim.
Step 5: The Insurance Carrier Reviews Your Claim
Once the ICA receives your Form 407, they will notify the insurance carrier who must issue a Notice of Claim Status within 21 days. This notice can:
- Accept your claim
- Deny your claim
- Accept medical treatment but deny compensation
- Request more information
Read every notice carefully and keep copies for your records.
Important Deadlines
Arizona has strict workers’ comp timelines that include:
- 1 year from the date of injury to file Form 407
- 90 days to protest a denial
Missing deadlines can affect benefits, so staying organized matters.
If Your Claim is Denied
A denial doesn’t mean the end of your workers’ compensation claim. You can:
- Request a hearing at the ICA
- Submit additional medical documentation
- Dispute the insurance carrier’s findings
Many denials are overturned when supporting evidence is presented during the hearing process.
When to Contact an Attorney
Consider getting legal help if:
- Your claim is denied
- Benefits are delayed
- Your doctor is pressured by the insurer carrier
- You’re unsure what your ICA notices mean
- Your injury prevents you from working
An attorney can guide you through next steps, protect your rights, and represent you during disputes.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Integrity
Recently recognized once again as two of Phoenix Magazine’s Top Lawyers, Adam Palmer and Jett Palmer have built a reputation rooted in advocacy, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Their work continues to influence Arizona law and ensure that injured workers receive the fair treatment they deserve.
At Palmer Law Offices, P.C., their team carries that same mission forward, providing personalized, knowledgeable representation to clients navigating complex workers’ compensation and injury cases throughout Arizona.
