Detailed Answer
1. Contact Your Employer or HR Department
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 152, Section 11 (M.G.L. c.152 §11), your employer must file a First Report of Injury with its insurer within seven days of receiving notice of your injury. Start by asking your supervisor, human resources department, or risk manager:
- Whether a claim has been filed.
- The insurer’s name and claim number.
- Contact information for the insurance adjuster handling your file.
2. Check the Massachusetts Department of Industrial Accidents (DIA) Website
The DIA maintains information on all active workers’ compensation claims. You can:
- Visit the DIA homepage: mass.gov/industrial-accidents.
- Use the “Case Search” or “eCourts” feature to look up your name, employer, or claim number.
- Download status reports, hearing dates, and filings associated with your claim.
3. Call the DIA Directly
If you can’t find your claim online, you can call the DIA Intake Unit for case verification. Be ready to provide:
- Your full name and date of birth.
- Date and location of the workplace injury.
- Your employer’s legal name and address.
Find updated contact numbers at the DIA website above. The DIA is authorized to maintain all workers’ compensation records under M.G.L. c.152 §13.
4. Request Copies of Filings in Writing
You can send a written request to your employer’s insurer or to the DIA records office. Include:
- Your name and claim number (if known).
- Date of injury and a brief description.
- A clear statement that you’re requesting copies of any filed reports or correspondence.
Under the Massachusetts Public Records Law, certain administrative documents may be available upon request.
5. Consult a Workers’ Compensation Attorney
While you can verify a claim on your own, an attorney experienced in Massachusetts workers’ compensation can:
- Confirm that all required reports have been filed correctly.
- Track procedural deadlines (e.g., notice to employer within 30 days under M.G.L. c.152 §10).
- Advise you on next steps if you encounter delays or denials.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney about your specific situation.
Helpful Hints
- Keep written records of all communications—dates, names, and summaries.
- Note the date you first reported your injury and any follow-up calls or letters.
- Confirm the insurer’s claim number and use it in all future inquiries.
- Download or print any online status pages as proof of your efforts.
- Watch deadlines closely: you have 30 days to notify your employer under M.G.L. c.152 §10.
- If you encounter resistance, you can file a Complaint for Tribunal Review with the DIA.