Workers’ comp claim denied? Here is what happens next
A denial letter is not the final word. Here is how objections, medical exams and hearings work.
- Workers’ comp
- September 9, 2026
- 5 min read
- Written by our team
A denial letter can feel final, but in California it usually is not. Most denials can be challenged, and there are clear next steps.
Why claims get denied
The insurer says the injury did not happen at work
A form was missing, or the claim was filed late
A dispute over which doctor you were supposed to see
What happens next
You can object to the denial and ask for a hearing before the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board. There may be an independent medical evaluation to sort out the dispute. The deadlines are short, so it is best to act quickly.
Bring us the denial letter and we will explain your options for free. In workers’ comp, attorney fees are set and approved by the appeals board, not by us.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Every situation is different. If you have questions about your own case, call us at (760) 338-9712.
