Filing a Workers' Comp Claim in Wyoming

As soon as practical, but no later than 72 hours after the general nature of the injury becomes apparent, the injured employee must report the accident or injury to the employer in writing or by another approved method. The employee must also file an injury report with the employer and the Workers' Compensation Division within 10 days after the injury becomes apparent. Failing to do so creates a presumption that the claim will be denied, which the worker can overcome only by clear and convincing evidence that the employer and Division were not prejudiced.

In addition to the injury reports, an application or claim for benefits must be filed within one year after the injury (or, for injuries not readily apparent, within one year after the worker discovers it); the injury report itself is not a claim. For injuries that develop over a long period, the claim must be filed within one year after a diagnosis is first communicated to the worker or within three years of the last injurious workplace exposure, whichever is later.

Report the injury to your supervisor immediately (no later than 72 hours), get medical care and tell the provider it is work-related, and file a Wyoming Report of Injury with the Department of Workforce Services' Workers' Compensation Division within 10 days, preferably together with your employer. The Division assigns a nine-digit claim number to give to your health care providers. Claim status is available online through PIERS or by calling (307) 777-7441.

The Workers' Compensation Division issues a final determination on a claim, with reasons and notice of the right to a hearing. Any interested party may request a hearing before a hearing examiner by filing a written request with the Division within 15 days after the notice is mailed; if no determination is made within 60 days after the claim is filed, a hearing may also be requested. Without a timely request, the determination is not subject to further review (though the Division may redetermine a denial within one year). Disputes over medical ratings go to the medical commission's hearing panel.

Report your injury to your supervisor no later than 72 hours after it happens, and file a Wyoming Report of Injury with the Department of Workforce Services' Workers' Compensation Division within 10 days (by mail to P.O. Box 20207, Cheyenne, WY 82003, email dws-wcintake@wyo.gov, or fax (307) 777-6552); DWS encourages the worker and employer to complete the form together. DWS then assigns a nine-digit claim number to give your health care providers. Check claim information anytime online through the PIERS system, or call (307) 777-7441 or your claims analyst.