Filing a workers’ comp claim in California.
Administered by the California Division of Workers' Compensation (DWC). Primary form: DWC 1 — Workers' Compensation Claim Form.
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Open Notice of Claim wizardCalifornia State Board
- Agency
- California Division of Workers' Compensation (DWC)
- Primary claim form
- DWC 1 — Workers' Compensation Claim Form
- Official website
- https://www.dir.ca.gov/dwc/
Deadlines at a glance
30 days from date of injury (notify employer)
Report to your employer first. Put it in writing — email, text, or signed letter. Missing this window can reduce or eliminate benefits.
1 year from date of injury or last benefit payment
File DWC 1 — Workers' Compensation Claim Form with the California Division of Workers' Compensation (DWC) before this window closes.
3 days, retroactive after 14 days
Medical benefits typically begin immediately. The waiting period applies to wage-replacement (TTD/TPD) benefits only.
California-specific notes
Labor Code § 5405. Employer must provide DWC-1 upon learning of injury.
Federal programs that may apply
The California program covers most private-sector workers. Three federal programs run in parallel for specific worker categories:
- FECA — Federal Employees’ Compensation Act. Covers civilian federal employees. Filed through the US DOL, Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs.
- LHWCA — Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. Covers maritime workers (longshoremen, shipbuilders, harbor workers) on navigable US waters.
- Jones Act — 46 U.S.C. § 30104. Covers seamen injured in the course of employment. Provides a negligence cause of action and maintenance and cure rights outside the state WC system.
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