What Is the 90-Day Rule for Workers Compensation?

When you are injured on the job, understanding the process for workers compensation can feel overwhelming. 

One key component of this process is the 90-Day Rule, a timeframe that has significant implications for both employees and employers.

The 90-Day Rule generally refers to the timeframe during which an injured worker must report their injury or when an employer or insurer must act on a workers compensation claim. 

Meeting this deadline ensures that claims are processed efficiently and that injured workers have access to the benefits they need to recover.

If you are navigating federal workers compensation or trying to learn more about workers compensation benefits, understanding this rule can help you take the right steps at the right time.

Let’s explore what this rule means, your responsibilities as an employee, and how employers manage these critical deadlines.

What Are the Employees’ Responsibilities?

As an employee, one of your most important responsibilities after a workplace injury is reporting it as soon as possible. 

The 90-Day Rule often requires that injuries be reported within 90 days from the date of the incident.

Failing to report an injury within this timeframe can jeopardize your ability to access workers compensation benefits. 

Acting quickly can also prevent misunderstandings or disputes about the validity of your claim.

Here are the key steps employees should take:

• Notify Your Employer: Inform your employer of your injury as soon as it happens. Written documentation is usually recommended.
  
• Seek Medical Attention: Get evaluated by an approved doctor or healthcare provider. Early intervention often results in better recovery outcomes.
  
• Follow the Claims Process: File the necessary paperwork and keep track of deadlines.

Being proactive helps ensure your claim is processed smoothly and that you receive the benefits you are entitled to under federal workers compensation or your state’s program.

How Do Employers Count 90 Days?

For employers, the 90-Day Rule is critical in determining how they manage workers compensation claims. 

The clock typically starts ticking on the day of the injury, though exact rules can vary by state and employer policy.

During this period, employers are responsible for:

• Documenting the Incident: Collecting details about the injury to support the claim.
  
• Submitting Claims: Sending all required information to their insurance carrier within the specified timeframe.
  
• Facilitating Medical Care: Ensuring the injured employee has access to authorized healthcare providers.

Employers also use the 90-Day Rule to evaluate the validity of claims.

This timeframe allows them to gather evidence and ensure the injury is work-related.

Staying within the 90-day deadline is crucial to avoid complications or delays in the claims process.

When employers handle these responsibilities correctly, the process can be more efficient for everyone involved.

How Long Do Workers Comp Settlements Take?

Once a claim is filed, you might wonder how long it will take to receive your workers compensation settlement. 

Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer, as the timeline depends on several factors, including the complexity of your injury, the cooperation of the employer and insurance company, and whether the claim is disputed.

In many cases:

• Simple Cases: These can be resolved in a matter of weeks or a few months, especially when all parties agree on the circumstances.
  
• Disputed Claims: These may take significantly longer, sometimes over a year, due to legal proceedings or additional investigations.

The 90-Day Rule plays a significant role in this process. 

Employers and insurance companies often use this period to decide whether to accept or deny a claim, which can impact the overall timeline.

Understanding your rights under federal workers comp and workers comp benefits ensures you know what to expect and how to navigate delays.

Settlements typically include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other benefits that support your recovery and provide financial stability during a challenging time. 

Patience and knowledge are key to seeing your case through successfully.

Knowing the steps involved can help you feel more in control of your situation.

Let Us Help You

The 90-Day Rule for workers compensation is a critical timeframe that impacts both employees and employers. 

For employees, it ensures that injuries are reported promptly, protecting your right to benefits. 

For employers, it provides a structured timeline to evaluate claims and fulfill their responsibilities.

If you are a federal worker, navigating the complexities of federal workers compensation can be especially challenging. 

At Better Life Physical Therapy, we specialize in helping federal workers manage the paperwork and processes needed to secure workers compensation benefits.

You do not have to navigate this alone. 

With the right support, you can focus on healing while we help you handle the rest. 

Take the first step today and let us guide you through this journey.