Workers Compensation Claim Process

Step 1: Seek Immediate Medical Care

• Get prompt first aid or medical attention for any work-related injury or illness.
• You can choose your own licensed medical provider in Alaska—be sure to inform the doctor it’s a work-related injury.
• Save all receipts and medical records for claim support.

Step 2: Notify All Parties

• Tell your supervisor about the injury as soon as possible—ideally, immediately after the incident.
• Written notification is required; Alaska law mandates that you provide notice within 10 days of the accident or discovery of a work-related illness.
• Use the “Report of Occupational Injury or Illness” form (Form 07-6100) to submit this notification. Keep a copy of this report and proof of its submission employer for your records.
• Ensure your Employer provides a “Report of Occupational Injury or Illness” for (Form 07-6101) to the Alaska Workers’ Compensation Division within 10 days of you providing notice to them. If the Employer does not submit the notice, then you should provide the notice to the Alaska Workers’ Compensation Division yourself.
• Notify your adjuster of your designated primary physician in writing.
• Failure to give proper notice may jeopardize your eligibility for benefits.

Step 3: Documentation for Your Claim

Gather and keep:

• Payroll and wage records for your year of injury and two (2) years prior (W-2s, recent pay stubs, and tax returns)
• Detailed accident description and witness contact information
• Employer details and supervisor’s name
• All medical evaluations, care records, accounting statements (AKA “billing ledgers” or “master bills”) from treating providers, and receipts in date order.
• Physicians Report Forms (Form 07-6102) are very helpful for establishing your injury as being work-related. Continue requesting that your provider complete these for you throughout the process.
• Employer’s workers’ compensation insurance information.

Step 4: Employer Reporting and Insurer Actions

• Your employer must complete the Report of Injury and send it to the insurer and the Alaska Workers’ Compensation Board (AWCB), typically within 10 days of being notified.
• You are still required to notify the Alaska Workers’ Compensation Division of your injury within 10 days even if the Employer fails to do so.
• The insurer will then review, investigate, and make an initial decision (approval or denial of claim).

Step 5: Follow-Up Medical Care and Communication

• Attend all scheduled medical appointments and follow your doctor’s orders to maintain your eligibility for ongoing benefits.
• Stay in communication with your employer and insurer, responding promptly to requests for more information.

Step 6: Claim Determination and Payment

• If approved, you will begin receiving benefits for medical costs and realted travel expenses, lost wages, and related rehabilitation expenses.
• If denied, you have the right to challenge the denial. (see next section for the process).

Step 7: Challenge Process for Denied Claims

If your claim is denied, you may:

• File a calim with the AWCB. Timely filing is crucial—there are strict deadlines outlined in your denial notice.
• Participate in mediation, pre-hearing conferences, and a formal hearing before the Board.
• Appeal further decisions to the Alaska Workers’ Compensation Appeals Commission or, if needed, the Alaska Supreme Court.

Key Tips & Best Practices

For Claims Success:

• Report injuries immediately (ideally on the day of the incident).
• Always use written notice and keep a copy for your records.
• Retain all supporting documents—organized records in chronological order speed up claims and help during disputes.
• Work with a legal expert if facing retaliation, denial, or complex appeals.

For Employers:

• Promptly file injury reports, accurately document all incidents, and cooperate with insurer and AWCB requests.
• Post details of your workers’ compensation coverage at visible workplace locations.

Summary: Alaska Workers’ Comp Claim Steps

• Seek medical care
• Notify employer (within 10 days, in writing, keep a copy)
• Collect and organize documentation
• Employer submits to insurer/AWCD (within 10 days of your notice)
• Employee needs to submit Report of Injury to AWCD if Employer fails to do so
• Insurance decision (approval or denial)
• Challenge if denied

Workers’ compensation in Alaska is a streamlined, stepwise process. For questions or legal support—including complex claims and appeals—contact Honeycutt Law to safeguard your rights and ensure the best possible outcome.