California Workers Help is a free, plain-English resource for injured workers. Learn how to report your injury, file a claim, get medical care, and collect the benefits you're owed — and what to do if your claim is denied.
Pick the topic that matches where you are right now. Each guide is short, accurate, and written for workers — not lawyers.
The 30-day deadline, who to tell, and how to put it in writing so your claim is protected.
Read the guide →What the claim form does, how to fill it out, and what your employer must do next.
Read the guide →Choosing a doctor, the Medical Provider Network (MPN), and how treatment gets approved.
Read the guide →How wage-replacement checks work while you recover, and how much you should receive.
Read the guide →What happens when an injury leaves lasting effects, and how impairment ratings work.
Read the guide →Why claims get denied, your right to appeal, and the WCAB hearing process.
Read the guide →When you're sent to a medical-legal evaluation and how to prepare for it.
Read the guide →Stipulated awards vs. Compromise & Release — what each one means for you.
Read the guide →The avoidable missteps that quietly sink otherwise valid California claims.
Read the guide →Tell your employer in writing as soon as you can — generally within 30 days. Waiting can jeopardize your claim.
Ask for the DWC-1 claim form and get treatment. Tell the doctor exactly how the injury is work-related.
Medical care, temporary disability pay, permanent disability, and job-displacement help may all apply.
Most California employees are covered regardless of who was at fault or immigration status. If you're stuck, get help.
No legalese. We explain reporting deadlines, benefits, and the claims process the way a knowledgeable friend would.
Every guide is built around California's system — Labor Code rules, the DWC, MPNs, QME/AME, and the WCAB.
This is an educational resource. The guides, the FAQ, and the benefit calculator cost you nothing.
If you'd like advice on your own situation, we can connect you with a licensed workers' comp attorney for a free consultation.
Tell us what happened and we'll point you to the right guide — and connect you with a free attorney consultation if you want one.
Get Free Help With Your Claim