Disability Benefits Guide
North Carolina Workers’ Compensation: Claims, Disputes, and Help
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Which System Handles This Claim?
North Carolina’s Industrial Commission separates occupational accident insurance from workers’ compensation insurance. Its claimant guidance says it does not have jurisdiction over coverage disputes under occupational accident policies. Confirm which policy the employer actually has.
Official North Carolina Guidance.
How Do I Report the Injury?
Give the employer prompt written notice of the injury or occupational disease and keep a copy. The commission’s guidance explains that occupational-disease notice can depend on when competent medical authority advises the worker about the condition.
Official North Carolina Guidance.
What Do I File?
The employee generally files Form 18 to assert a workers’ compensation claim. The commission identifies Form 18B for occupational lung-disease claims. Use the applicable form rather than assuming an employer’s injury report has filed your employee claim.
Official North Carolina Guidance.
What if Benefits Are Disputed?
If the employer or carrier denies the claim and you wish to pursue benefits, the commission directs workers to request a hearing using Form 33. The hearing request is a separate procedural step from the original claim form.
Official North Carolina Guidance.
Where Can I Get Help, and What Should I Bring?
Check the employer’s name, insurance information, injury or diagnosis dates, and the specific benefits requested. Save the denial and medical records supporting work connection. For an allegedly uninsured employer, the commission identifies its Criminal Investigations and Employee Classification Division; a coverage report and a claim for benefits serve different purposes.
Official North Carolina Guidance.
Choose Your Next Step
- Organize A Claim Or Denial
- Check SSDI And SSI Coordination
- North Carolina Disability Benefit Resources
- Explore Workers’ Compensation Help Options
General information, not a decision about your eligibility or legal advice. Source information checked October 20, 2026; rules, forms, and filing methods can change.