Detailed Answer
If you suffer a workplace injury in Idaho and need to confirm that a workers’ compensation claim has been filed on your behalf, you have several routes to verify the claim status under Idaho law. These include checking with your employer, insurer, and the Idaho Industrial Commission.
The workers’ compensation claims process is governed by Idaho Code Title 72, Chapter 5, and Idaho Code § 72-216 (reporting requirements) mandates that employers file a First Report of Injury within ten days of notice of an injury.
1. Contact Your Employer or HR Department
Under Idaho Code § 72-216, your employer or their insurer must submit a First Report of Injury (FROI) to the Idaho Industrial Commission within ten days of learning about your workplace injury. Start by asking your supervisor, manager, or human resources representative if they have filed this report. Request the claim number, date of filing, and name of the insurance adjuster handling your case.
2. Reach Out to the Insurance Carrier
Your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance carrier manages claim intake and processing. Find the carrier’s contact information—often posted at your job site or listed on your paystub—and call the adjuster. Provide your full name, date of injury, and employer’s name. Ask the adjuster to confirm whether a claim has been filed, and if so, request the claim number and next steps.
3. Verify with the Idaho Industrial Commission
The Idaho Industrial Commission (IIC) maintains all workers’ compensation records. You can verify your claim status by:
- Visiting the IIC website at iic.idaho.gov for general guidance, forms, and the First Report of Injury instructions.
- Calling the IIC Records Department at (208) 334-6000. Provide your name, date of injury, employer, and claim number (if known).
- Submitting a public records request under Idaho Code Title 74, Chapter 1 if you need a written confirmation of your claim filing.
4. Review Your Correspondence and Medical Bills
After your employer files the FROI, the insurance carrier must send you an acknowledgment letter and assign an adjuster. Check mail, email, and provider statements for claim numbers, dates, or insurance references. Bills marked “covered by workers’ compensation” strongly indicate that your claim has been filed.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation.
Helpful Hints
- Keep a detailed log of all communications—note dates, times, names, and topics discussed.
- Follow up phone calls or meetings with brief e-mails summarizing what was discussed and agreed upon.
- Retain copies of medical reports, bills, correspondence from your employer, and insurer communications.
- Check the IIC website periodically for updates on procedures, forms, and contact information.
- If you encounter roadblocks or confusing information, consider consulting a workers’ compensation attorney for next steps.