When Can the Ohio BWC Deny Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
For most employees in Columbus, collecting workers’ compensation benefits involves filing a claim with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC). But, filing a claim doesn’t necessarily mean that you will receive benefits—and in fact, many employees have their claims denied. In this article, Columbus workers’ compensation lawyer Doug Malek discusses seven common reasons for workers’ compensation denials.
7 Common Reasons for Workers’ Compensation Denials in Ohio
1. You are Not an Eligible Employee
In Ohio, only eligible employees can file claims for workers’ compensation benefits. If you are not eligible to receive benefits, you can expect to have your claim denied.
2. Your Injury or Illness Isn’t Job-Related
Workers’ compensation only covers job-related injuries and illnesses. Even if your injury or illness prevents you from working, if you were injured or fell ill on personal time, you aren’t eligible for benefits.
3. You Haven’t Proven Your Eligibility
Many employees run into issues not because they are ineligible, but because they haven’t adequately proven their eligibility. When you file for workers’ compensation, it is up to you to prove that you are entitled to benefits.
4. You Didn’t See a Certified Health Care Provider
While you can see a doctor of your own choosing for your first visit, you must see a certified health care provider for your continuing care. If you haven’t seen a BWC-certified provider, this could be the reason for your denial.
5. You Submitted Incomplete, Inaccurate or Inconsistent Information
When you file for workers’ compensation, the Ohio BWC will receive information from your employer and your health care provider as well. If the information you submit is incomplete, or if it appears to be inaccurate or inconsistent with the information your employer or provider sends to the BWC, this is also likely to result in a denial.
6. You Waited Too Long to File Your Claim
Ohio has strict deadlines for workers’ compensation claims. If you wait too long to file (more than one year for an injury or more than two years for an illness), you could lose your eligibility for benefits.
7. Your Employer is Disputing Your Claim
Finally, if your employer disputes your claim, this could also lead to a denial. Employers will often dispute their employees’ claims for the reasons discussed above—and for a variety of other reasons as well.
How to Avoid a Workers’ Compensation Denial from the Ohio BWC
Given the variety of issues that can lead to a denial of benefits, what can you do to ensure that your workers’ compensation claim is successful? While there are no guarantees, hiring an experienced Columbus workers’ compensation lawyer can significantly improve your chances of receiving benefits. Additionally, if you hire a lawyer and the Ohio BWC denies your claim, your lawyer will already be up to speed and ready to file an appeal.
Get Help from a Columbus Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Are you suffering from a job-related injury or illness? If so, we can help with your claim for benefits. To speak with a Columbus workers’ compensation lawyer in confidence, call 888-444-7440 or request a free consultation online today.