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Department of Industrial Relations (DIR)

Workers’ Compensation in California: A Guidebook for Injured Workers

The Department of Industrial Relations is pleased to release the fourth edition of "Workers' Compensation in California: A Guidebook for Injured Workers," March 2013, now available in English. The Spanish version of the guidebook will be available soon.

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 March 2013, at a time when the system was undergoing many changes. Workers using the guidebook should also check updates posted at the state Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) website.

Introduction	How to Use This Guidebook
Chapter 1	The Basics of Workers’ Compensation
Chapter 2	After You Get Hurt on the Job
	Keep Your Claim on Track
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	Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits
Chapter 9	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

March 2013