How Workers' Comp Claims Work in Florida: Step by Step

A clear, step-by-step guide to Florida workers' comp claims for small business owners, from injury to closed claim, plus deadlines and common mistakes.

TL;DR:** In Florida, an injured employee must report a workplace injury within 30 days, and the employer must report it to the insurance carrier within 7 days. From there, the carrier handles medical authorization and wage benefits under strict statutory timelines. Missing deadlines is the single biggest reason claims get delayed or denied. Running a business in Lantana, West Palm Beach, or anywhere in Palm Beach County means dealing with a Florida workers' comp system that is heavily rule-driven. It is not like a homeowners or auto claim where you call your agent and start a conversation. Comp claims move on a legal clock, and both the employer and employee have specific duties. Here is how the process actually works, step by step. What you need Before an injury ever happens, make sure you have these pieces in place: An active workers' comp policy** that meets Florida's mandatory coverage thresholds for your industry (construction is different from non-construction, more on that below) A written injury reporting procedure** that every employee and supervisor knows, even if it is just a laminated card by the time clock Your carrier's claim reporting phone number and portal** saved somewhere your office manager can find it fast A list of approved medical providers**, since in Florida the employer/carrier generally controls initial medical treatment choice Updated payroll and job classification records**, because inaccurate classifications can cause claim and premium problems later If you are not sure your current policy or classifications are right for your operation, it is worth a review with workers' comp coverage built for Florida employers, alongside your general liability policy so the two don't leave gaps between them. Step 1: The injury happens, and immediate…