It can be devastating to learn that your workers’ compensation claim came back denied. After all, you filed your claim because you suffered injuries in a workplace accident. You need financial support to help you and your family during this difficult time. While this is a frustrating setback, it is not the end of the road for you.
If your claim came back denied, the next step will be to move forward with the appeals process. The first part of this process is to understand why the claim was not successful and what you need to further validate your claim to workers’ comp benefits. When it is your financial well-being on the line, you will find that it is helpful to work with a Minnesota attorney who understands how the workers’ comp process works.
Why a denial?
It may help to remember that workers’ compensation insurance companies do not have your best interests in mind. Their primary concern is their own bottom line, and this means they will look carefully for reasons to minimize benefits or deny a claim. Some of the most common reasons they deny claims include:
- You did not report your injury within the required window of time.
- You did not file your claim with the insurance company within the required window of time.
- It is not clear your injury is actually compensable.
- Your employer is disputing the claim or denying that it is work-related.
- It is not evident you required medical treatment for your injury.
- You did not provide enough evidence that your injury is a result of your job.
Once you understand why your claim came back denied, you can move forward with the appropriate steps to appeal and try again. You may need to include additional evidence and documentation to prove your claim is valid. This may mean gathering more medical records, getting letters from your care providers and providing proof of your time away from work.
Guidance is available
The workers’ compensation process is not easy, even if it is obvious that you have a valid work-related injury. Many injured Minnesota workers find it beneficial to work with a legal professional as they complete their application. This can help them avoid setbacks and provide a higher chance of success with the initial claim. This help can also prove invaluable if it is necessary to appeal a denied claim.
