Injured Workers

 This document includes the criteria for reporting an accident or occurrence of an occupational disease to the Commission.

 The Injured Workers Guide was developed as a reference for the injured worker and covers information on the following topics:

• Types of Injuries under the Act
• Minor Injuries
• Time Limits for Filing a Claim
• Benefits Under the Act
• Procedure if Claim is Denied by the Employer
• Request for Review
• Responsibilities of an Injured Worker

 How to appeal a Full Commission Opinion to the Virginia Court of Appeals.

 How to appeal a Deputy Commissioner Opinion to the Full Commission.

All Commission facsimile (fax) equipment and services are available to receive documents 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Any document submitted by fax shall be deemed filed with the Commission as of the date and time it is received by the Commission’s fax equipment or service agent to which it has been sent.

Vocational Rehabilitation Guidelines- Español

Guidelines issued by the Commission to provide understanding between the parties about the vocational rehabilitation process, to facilitate appropriate vocational rehabilitation benefits and services, and eliminate needless conflict and litigation over such benefits and services.

The Commission has implemented guidelines to its employees to help ensure that information for determining eligibility for employment is not provided without the written consent of the employee. The procedures outlined in the Telephone Disclosure Guidelines are used by the Commission personnel in determining what information will be disclosed upon telephone inquiry. To view the complete Telephone Disclosure Guidelines, please see the link above.

The Commission will provide interpreters at its expense when requested for non-English speaking parties and witnesses in the evidentiary hearing setting. In lieu of a Commission-provided interpreter, parties independently may obtain and use the services of a qualified interpreter of their own choosing and at their own expense. Such interpreters need not be certified by the Supreme Court of Virginia, but must be competent to serve.

Effective April 19, 2022 the format to be used in Issue Mediation or Full and Final Mediation may be via videoconference, telephone, in person, or some hybrid of the three, subject to the discretion of the mediator and the agreement of the parties.