Workers' Compensation in California: A Guidebook for Injured Workers
The Department of Industrial Relations is pleased to release the seventh edition of "Workers' Compensation in California: A Guidebook for Injured Workers," May 2024, now available in English and Spanish.
This guidebook gives an overview of the California workers’ compensation system. It is meant to help workers with job injuries understand their basic legal rights, the steps to take to request workers’ compensation benefits, and where to seek further information and help if necessary.
This edition of the guidebook describes the workers' compensation system as of May 2024. Workers using the guidebook should also check updates posted at the state Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) website.
Download a complete version of the Workers’ Compensation in California: A Guidebook for Injured Workers
Guidebook by chapter
| Introduction | How to Use This Guidebook |
| Chapter 1 | The Basics of Workers’ Compensation |
| Chapter 2 | After You Get Hurt on the Job |
| Chapter 3 | Medical Care |
| Chapter 4 | Resolving Problems with Medical Care and Medical Reports |
| Chapter 5 | Temporary Disability Benefits |
| Chapter 6 | Working for Your Employer after Injury |
| Chapter 7 | Permanent Disability Benefits |
| Chapter 8 | Death Benefits |
| Chapter 9 | Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits |
| Chapter 10 | Return-to-Work Supplement Program |
| Chapter 11 | For More Information and Help |
| Questions & Answers about State Information & Assistance Services | |
| Questions & Answers about Attorneys | |
| Appendix A | Important Laws and Regulations |
| Appendix B | Glossary |
Guidebook video
Chapter 1 - The Basics of Workers’ Compensation
October 2024