California Workers' Compensation Guide
Everything you need to know about filing a workers' comp claim in California, your rights, benefit amounts, and how to maximize your settlement.
Quick Answer
California workers' compensation provides medical treatment, wage replacement (about 2/3 of your salary), and permanent disability benefits for workplace injuries. You have 30 days to report an injury and 1 year to file a claim. Benefits apply regardless of fault - even if you caused the accident, you're covered. Get free legal help by contacting a workers' comp attorney.
Key Takeaways
- Report your injury within 30 days or lose your right to benefits
- File a formal claim (DWC-1) within 1 year of the injury
- Temporary Disability pays approximately 2/3 of your wages (up to $1,764/week in 2026)
- All reasonable medical treatment is covered at no cost to you
- You cannot be fired for filing a workers' comp claim (Labor Code 132a)
- Settlements range from $20,000 to $500,000+ depending on injury severity
How to File a Workers' Comp Claim in California
Report Your Injury Immediately
Tell your supervisor about your injury as soon as possible. California law requires reporting within 30 days to preserve your right to benefits. Be specific about what happened, when, and what body parts are affected.
Get and Complete the DWC-1 Form
Your employer must give you a DWC-1 claim form within one business day of learning about your injury. Fill out the employee section completely and keep a copy for your records.
Seek Medical Treatment
See a doctor within your employer's Medical Provider Network (MPN). Tell the doctor your injury is work-related. Keep all medical records, receipts, and documentation of your symptoms.
Consult with a Workers' Comp Attorney
An experienced attorney can maximize your settlement, handle disputes with insurance, and ensure you receive all benefits you're entitled to. Consultations are free and attorneys only get paid if you win.
Benefits You Can Receive
Medical Treatment
All reasonable and necessary medical care at no cost to you, including surgery, physical therapy, medications, and medical equipment.
Temporary Disability (TD)
Approximately 2/3 of your wages (up to $1,764/week in 2026) while you're recovering and unable to work.
Permanent Disability (PD)
Compensation for lasting impairment after you reach maximum medical improvement. Based on your disability rating (0-100%).
Job Displacement
Up to $6,000 voucher for retraining if you can't return to your previous job due to permanent restrictions.
Important Deadlines
Find an Attorney Near You
We appear at every Workers' Compensation Appeals Board in California. Click your city to learn about local resources and get a free case evaluation.
Major Cities
Los Angeles
San Diego
San Francisco
Sacramento
San Jose
Oakland
San Fernando Valley & Greater LA
Van Nuys
Glendale
Burbank
Pasadena
Santa Clarita
Simi Valley
Thousand Oaks
Palmdale
Lancaster
San Fernando
Other Locations
California Workers' Comp FAQ
How do I file a workers' comp claim in California?
To file a workers' comp claim in California: 1) Report your injury to your employer immediately, 2) Your employer must provide you with a DWC-1 claim form within one business day, 3) Complete the employee section and return it to your employer, 4) Your employer files the claim with their insurance carrier. You should also seek medical treatment and keep detailed records of your injury, symptoms, and how it affects your work.
What benefits am I entitled to in California workers' comp?
California workers' compensation provides: Medical Treatment (all reasonable care), Temporary Disability (about 2/3 of wages while recovering), Permanent Disability (lump sum or weekly payments for lasting impairment), Supplemental Job Displacement benefits (retraining vouchers if you can't return to your job), and Death Benefits for surviving family members.
Can I see my own doctor for a work injury in California?
Generally, you must treat within your employer's Medical Provider Network (MPN) for the first 30 days. However, if you predesignated a personal physician before your injury by giving your employer written notice, you can see that doctor immediately. After 30 days, you can request to change to a different doctor within the MPN.
How much is the average workers' comp settlement in California?
Average workers' comp settlements in California range from $20,000 to $100,000, with more severe injuries settling for $200,000 to $500,000+. Settlement value depends on: permanent disability rating (0-100%), your weekly wage, your age and occupation, need for future medical care, and whether you had surgery. Settlements are tax-free.
Can I be fired for filing a workers' comp claim?
No. California Labor Code Section 132a makes it illegal for an employer to fire, threaten, or discriminate against an employee for filing a workers' compensation claim. If your employer retaliates, you may be entitled to additional compensation including reinstatement, back pay, and up to $10,000 in penalties.
What if my workers' comp claim is denied?
A denial is not the end of your case. You have the right to appeal by filing an Application for Adjudication of Claim with the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB). A workers' comp attorney can help gather medical evidence, request a Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME), and present your case at a hearing. Many denied claims are successfully overturned on appeal.
How Much Is Your California Work Injury Case Worth?
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