Filing for Worker’s Comp
In our agency there is always a chance to get hurt on the job. As your Union, we want to make sure that your claims have the best chance of success, as opposed to the agency where, historically, it has been the case that they do not have your best interest in mind. Filing claims can be frustrating, intimidating and, without proper guidance, small errors can equal to rejection in claims. Many claims are rejected due to errors in the filing process, utilize your resources to lessen the chance that you end up on this demographic. Although we never plan for an accident to happen, we should always be prepared, that’s why we want to share these few tips to help you prepare and along the way:
If you ever suffer from a work related injury, don’t rush to file your claim first, notify your supervisor as soon as it happens and contact your Union right away.
You have 3 years to file Worker’s Comp claims, understand that there is a distinction between notifying your supervisor and filing a claim.
Your injury must be in relation of performance of your duties as described on your PD.
If your manager assigns a duty that is not on your PD, request an email prior to completing the task. It is appropriate to clarify that this is in case that you get injured while performing this duty is asked why.
If your manager refuses to send you an email or you do not receive it prior to performing the assigned duty, send your manager an email BEFORE starting the performing the duty clearly stating that you will be completing the duty as instructed per their instructions.
You may be elegible for Worker’s Comp outside of your TOD if you are on the premises within a reasonable amount of time (usually described as 30 minutes before or after your TOD).
You will not be elegible if you are on the premises for visiting purposes, appointments and/or any other reasons that are not related to your job.
You may be elegible for Worker’s Comp while on travel if you are on duty hours.
If you are COVID Positive, you may be elegible for Worker’s Comp.
You must be able to prove that you contracted COVID at work.
If you suspect you have COVID, get your PCR test in a medical facility on your own and an antigen test as well.
Home tests are not acceptable for COP.
If the Agency send you home for COVID, you may be elegible for Compensation of Pay.
Either if you are Negative or Positive, ALWAYS ask your manager in writing “when can I return to work?”
This answer will determine that you have been outside of work “forcefully” by the Agency rather than calling off by your own decision.
Worker’s Comp does not need to be difficult, don’t face it on your own. As members, you have access to certain resources. If you know someone that may be facing this situation, encourage them to join AFGE so they may be able to access all of the resources available that we may offer.
Disclaimer: The Union cannot fill your forms in your behalf nor do we guarantee results, however, we may advise you, provide you with resources depending on a case-by-case basis and ensure to the best of our ability that you have the best chances for success as possible.