How long do I have to report my work injury to my employer?

A: You have thirty (30) days after a work injury to notify your employer of the injury.

If you have sustained a work injury, it is important to inform your supervisor right away. By waiting, you are putting your worker’s compensation claim or potential workers’ compensation claim and injury(ies) at risk – especially if you need extensive medical care. However, you do have thirty (30) days.

Many employers say that you must give them twenty-four (24) hours’ notice. Since your employer may automatically deny your claim if you violate their notice policy, it is best to follow your employer’s policy but this is not required to obtain benefits. As long as it is reported to a supervisor within thirty (30) days, you can be eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits.

This is different than the time limitation on how long you have to file a claim with the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission. You have two years from the date of your injury to file a claim with the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission. This must be done separate and apart from reporting your injury to your Employer.