Answer a few quick questions and get an instant, plain-English read on whether you likely qualify — plus your filing deadline. No obligation.
If you were hurt on the job — or developed a condition because of your work — you may be entitled to California workers' compensation benefits, including 100% of your medical care, weekly disability payments, and a settlement for any permanent disability. You don't have to prove your employer did anything wrong; California workers' comp is a no-fault system. Most injured workers qualify, but a handful of details decide eligibility and how much your claim is worth.
The core elements are simple: you were an employee (even many workers labeled "independent contractors" legally qualify), your injury or illness was connected to your job, you reported it to your employer, and you're acting within the deadlines. California generally gives you one year from the date of injury — or from when you knew it was work-related — to file a claim (Labor Code § 5405), and 30 days to report it to your employer (§ 5400). For injuries that build up over time, the clock starts when disability and knowledge come together (§ 5412).
A denial does not mean your case is over. Insurance companies deny valid claims routinely, and many denials are reversed with the right medical evidence and representation. If you've been denied, the time to act is now — appeal deadlines are short.
This quiz gives you an instant, plain-English read on your situation. For a definitive answer, the team at the Law Offices of Solov & Teitell — serving injured California workers since 1965 — will review your case for free, with no obligation and no fee unless we win.
No. California workers' compensation is a no-fault system. You generally only need to show that your injury or illness arose out of and in the course of your employment — not that anyone did anything wrong.
Generally one year from the date of injury, or from the date you knew (or should have known) the condition was work-related (Labor Code § 5405). You also must report the injury to your employer within 30 days (§ 5400). Deadlines can be extended in some situations, so don't assume you're too late — ask.
Possibly. Misclassification is extremely common. California looks at the real nature of the work relationship, not just your job title, so many people labeled independent contractors are legally employees entitled to benefits. Don't disqualify yourself — get it reviewed.
No. A denial can be challenged, and many denied claims are ultimately approved. The key is acting quickly with the right medical and legal support, because appeal timelines are short.
Nothing up front. The consultation is free, and California workers' comp attorneys work on a contingency basis — there's no fee unless we recover benefits for you.
