Michigan lawyer explains various steps that an employee must go through to get his or her workers’ comp claim approved and why things get slowed down.
We understand how tough it can be for an employee who is hurt on the job. It is extremely stressful not knowing if an employer or insurance company will do the right thing and pay a claim. Many clients want to know how long it takes to get a workers’ comp claim approved in Michigan. Statistics published by the WDCA show most claims are paid within 21 days. However, it can be much longer if something is questioned or disputed.
There is nothing more frustrating than waiting for a claim to be approved. Many of our clients are suffering without income or medical treatment. It can take days, weeks, or even months before a claim is approved. Here is some information about the process and ways to speed things up. Make sure to call an experienced workers' comp attorney if things are not going your way.
How long does it take to get workers’ comp claim approved in Michigan?
In Michigan, statistics published by the Workers' Disability Compensation Agency (WDCA) show that workers' comp claims are approved and paid within approximately 21 days. Employees who are hurt on-the-job are entitled to lost wages and medical treatment. Lost wages begin after 7 days of disability. We tell people to expect a check approximately 2 weeks after entitlement begins. There is no waiting period for medical treatment, but you cannot select your own doctor for 28 days.
Mandatory 7-day disability period
There is a minimum 7-day disability period for wage loss benefits to commence. A check is supposed to be sent by the 14th day. However, statistics from the 2022 Pay Lag Report (most current) show it can take on average of 21 days for payments to start. We recommend contacting the insurance carrier and making sure they have wage records to calculate the rate as this is a frequent cause of delay.
Employer conference and recorded statement
Insurance companies routinely speak with employers before approving any Michigan workers' comp claims. It is also possible that a recorded statement will be needed. They want to make sure that a claim is 100% valid before authorizing medical treatment or sending out any money. It can take weeks or even months for a claim to be authorized when the employer refuses to cooperate with the investigation. We recommend speaking with an attorney should this occur.
Medical record review
Insurance companies typically review medical records before authorizing payment. They are checking the diagnosis, restrictions, and whether it is work-related. Unnecessary delays occur when the doctor’s office does not provide requested information. We recommend speaking with the claims adjuster and finding out what medical is missing so that it can be provided.
Independent medical examination (IME)
Watch out for insurance companies who want an independent medical examination (IME) before anything gets authorized. These doctors are handpicked by insurance companies, and the goal is to dispute claims. It is very important to speak with an experienced attorney should you be scheduled for an IME.
Have questions on how long it takes workers' comp to get approved in Michigan? Call our attorneys now!
If you are injured on the job in Michigan and have questions on how long it takes for workers’ comp to get approved, call now (855) 221-2667 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. Our attorneys are here for you.
Our attorneys have been exclusively helping injured workers in Michigan for more than 35 years. Our attorneys can help you better understand Michigan workers’ comp laws and what happens after someone has been hurt on the job.
To see what our own clients have to say about the caring, compassion, and communication they received from us, you can read in their own words about their experience here on our testimonials page from clients we have helped.
Michigan Workers Comp Lawyers never charges a fee to evaluate a potential case. Our law firm has represented injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 40 years. Call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation today.
Related information: