A workplace injury can already leave you feeling vulnerable and overwhelmed — but when your workers’ compensation claim gets denied, that frustration can turn into despair. Many injured workers in New York mistakenly believe that a denial is final. In reality, you still have powerful rights and options.

At WRKRS Law Firm, we’ve helped countless employees overturn denied claims and recover the benefits they were originally owed. Our legal team understands the tactics insurance companies use to avoid paying injured workers, and we know how to challenge those decisions effectively. If your claim has been rejected, don’t give up — the process isn’t over. It’s just beginning.

Why Workers’ Compensation Claims Are Denied

A denial doesn’t always mean your injury isn’t valid — in most cases, it’s the result of a misunderstanding, missing paperwork, or an insurance company’s attempt to save money.

Common reasons for denial include:

• Missed deadlines: Failing to report your injury within 30 days or file your claim within two years.
• Insufficient medical evidence: Your doctor’s report doesn’t clearly link the injury to your job duties.
• Disputes about how the injury occurred: The insurer claims your injury happened outside of work or during personal time.
• Pre-existing conditions: They allege your injury existed before your employment.
• Employer disputes: Your employer argues that your version of events isn’t accurate.
• Clerical or filing errors: Incomplete or inaccurate forms can also trigger a rejection.

The reality is that insurance companies deny claims because they can. The system favors insurers, not workers — and that’s why having the right representation can make all the difference.

Step 1: Understand Your Denial Letter

When your claim is denied, you’ll receive a Notice of Controversy (Form C-7) from the employer’s insurance company. This document outlines the reason for the denial.

It’s critical to review this form carefully. Some denials are based on small errors — like missing information or unclear medical notes — that can be corrected with additional documentation. Others are based on deeper disputes about how your injury occurred.

If you’re unsure how to interpret the form, WRKRS Law Firm can review it with you and explain exactly what needs to happen next.

Step 2: Gather Strong Evidence

To successfully appeal your claim, you’ll need to build a solid case that clearly connects your injury or illness to your job.

Important evidence includes:

• Medical records from an authorized workers’ comp physician
• Testimony from your doctor linking the injury to your work duties
• Statements from co-workers who witnessed the accident
• Photos, video, or incident reports from the workplace
• Pay stubs and job records that show your duties and hours

At WRKRS, we help you organize this evidence and ensure it’s properly presented to the New York Workers’ Compensation Board.

Step 3: File an Appeal

If your claim is denied, you have the right to request a hearing before a Workers’ Compensation Law Judge (WCLJ). This hearing is your opportunity to present evidence and testimony supporting your claim.

The process generally includes:

1. Filing an appeal request through the Board.
2. Preparing your evidence and witness statements.
3. Attending a hearing where both sides present their case.
4. The judge reviews the evidence and issues a written decision.

If the judge still denies your claim, you can appeal again to the Workers’ Compensation Board Panel and, if necessary, to the Appellate Division of the New York Supreme Court.

These appeals require detailed preparation and strict adherence to procedural rules — another reason why working with an experienced attorney is so valuable.

Step 4: Avoid Common Mistakes

Many injured workers accidentally harm their case by making simple but costly mistakes, such as:

• Failing to follow up with medical treatment.
• Missing filing or hearing deadlines.
• Giving incomplete information to the Board.
• Trying to handle the appeal alone.

At WRKRS, we handle all communications and filings on your behalf. That means no missed paperwork, no missed deadlines, and no missteps that could cost you your benefits.

Step 5: Stay Consistent with Medical Care

During your appeal, it’s essential to continue seeing your doctor and following their treatment plan. Stopping care too soon can give insurers ammunition to argue that your injury wasn’t serious or that you’ve fully recovered.

Keep detailed records of every appointment, diagnosis, and prescribed medication. If you see multiple specialists, make sure they each document that your injury was caused by work-related activities.

How WRKRS Law Firm Helps

We know how discouraging a denial can be, especially when you’re struggling to pay bills or return to work. At WRKRS Law Firm, we take on the burden of the legal process so you can focus on your health.

Our experienced attorneys will:

• Review your denial and identify the exact reason for rejection.
• Collect and organize all supporting evidence.
• File your appeal correctly and on time.
• Represent you in hearings and cross-examine insurance witnesses.
• Fight for every benefit you’re entitled to — from wage replacement to permanent disability compensation.

Our approach is hands-on, compassionate, and relentless. We don’t stop until justice is served.

The Power of Persistence

It’s common for insurance companies to deny legitimate claims, hoping injured workers won’t fight back. But with WRKRS Law Firm by your side, you’ll have a dedicated legal team who knows the system — and how to beat it.

We’ve successfully appealed denials for workers in every industry, including construction, healthcare, transportation, manufacturing, and hospitality. Each victory represents more than compensation — it’s about restoring dignity and financial security to hardworking New Yorkers.

Don’t Let a Denial Define Your Case

A denied claim is not the end — it’s the moment to take action. With the right help, you can appeal, win, and move forward.

At WRKRS Law Firm, we believe every injured worker deserves a fair chance at recovery. We don’t get paid unless we win, and your initial consultation is always free.

If your workers’ compensation claim has been denied, reach out today. Let us stand up for you, challenge the system, and secure the benefits you’ve earned through your hard work.

Your fight is our fight — and we’ll be with you every step of the way.