How Do I Get Workers' Compensation Benefits in Pennsylvania?
Bethlehem PA Lawyer Explains How System Works
Obtaining workers' compensation benefits in Pennsylvania can be very complicated. Depending on the circumstances of your workplace injury or illness, you might not be sure what you need to do to obtain the benefits you rightfully deserve.
We understand what you're going through. That's because our Bethlehem workers' compensation law firm has been helping injured workers secure the benefits they deserve since 1991 throughout Lehigh Valley.
When you have Vellner Law, PC on your side, you know you have someone you trust working tirelessly on your behalf. And since we have decades of experience handling such complex cases, we know what needs to be done to produce results.
How Process Works
In order to receive workers' compensation benefits, you normally need to take certain steps to receive such benefits. These steps include:
- Notify your employer you have been hurt at work. You have 120 days to do so from the date of your injury or illness in most cases.
- Have a doctor diagnose you. Your employer may initially choose which doctor examines you. If you disagree with the doctor's diagnosis, contact us. We can work with you to get you a second medical opinion.
- Make sure your employer files your workers' compensation claim. They have 7 days to do so after you notify them of your injury. If your employer has not submitted your application with the state Bureau of Workers' Compensation by that deadline, contact our law firm immediately.
- If your workers' compensation claim is denied, you will likely need to present your case before a Pennsylvania Bureau of Workers' Compensation judge. In Lehigh Valley, those judges handle cases in Allentown and Easton. We can represent you in court and in virtual hearings.
- You should start receiving workers' compensation checks 21 days after your application for benefits has been approved. If you do not receive a check after that time period, contact our law firm. We can contact your employer and the state Bureau of Workers' Compensation to find out why there's a delay on the benefits you're entitled to.