Illinois workers’ compensation law establishes specific requirements for reporting work injuries, obtaining medical treatment, and receiving wage replacement benefits. This page summarizes ten core rules injured workers should understand, including filing deadlines, available benefits, medical treatment rights, settlement considerations, and common issues that can affect workers’ compensation claims under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act.

10 Things to Know About Illinois Workers’ Compensation (2025)

Estimated reading time: 8–10 minutes

---

1. Illinois Workers’ Compensation Is a No-Fault System

You do not need to prove your employer did anything wrong. If you were injured while working, you are entitled to benefits.

More here: Illinois Workers’ Compensation No-Fault Rules →

2. You Must Report Your Injury Within 45 Days

You legally have 45 days to notify your employer — but reporting immediately is always best. Missing this deadline is a leading reason claims are denied.

If your claim was denied: Denied Workers’ Comp in Illinois →

3. The Statute of Limitations Can Kill Your Claim

In Illinois, you must file your claim with the IWCC by the following deadlines:

• 3 years from the date of injury, OR
• 2 years from the last TTD check or medical bill payment

Whichever deadline is later controls your case. Missing it means you permanently lose all benefits.

Deadlines Checklist

• ✔ Report injury within 45 days
• ✔ File claim before statute expires
• ✔ Keep all medical notes and wage documents

4. You Can Choose Your Own Doctor

Illinois has a two-choice rule — you are not required to treat with the “company clinic.”

5. You Are Entitled to Wage Loss Benefits

If your doctor takes you off work, you receive Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits paid at 2/3 of your average weekly wage.

Full wage-loss guide: How Much Workers’ Comp Pays in Illinois (2025) →

6. You May Be Entitled to a Workers’ Comp Settlement

Settlements depend on: the body part injured, your permanent restrictions, AWW, surgery, impairment, job loss, and future medical needs.

7. Insurance Companies Use Tactics to Minimize Claims

• Sending you to an IME doctor who minimizes your injury
• Delaying wage checks
• Blaming a pre-existing condition
• Denying the injury occurred at work
• Pushing for a quick settlement before you know the extent of your injury

8. Your Work Restrictions Matter

Your doctor’s restrictions determine whether you receive TTD, light duty, or potentially vocational rehabilitation.

9. You Cannot Be Fired for Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim

Illinois law protects you from retaliation for filing or pursuing a claim.

More here: Can You Be Fired for Filing Workers’ Comp? →

10. A Workers’ Comp Lawyer Can Increase Your Settlement

Experienced attorneys make sure benefits are paid correctly, medical care is preserved, and settlements reflect true value.

---

The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Process

1. Injury happens
2. Medical treatment begins
3. Employer is notified
4. TTD benefits begin if you are taken off work
5. Insurance investigates the claim
6. Medical improvement is reached
7. Settlement or arbitration hearing

Areas We Serve

Chicago • Cook County • DuPage • Will • Kane • Lake • McHenry • Kendall • All of Illinois

Related Illinois Workers’ Compensation Resources

• Illinois Workers’ Comp FAQ
• PTO & Vacation Time on Workers’ Comp
• Late Workers’ Comp Checks
• Can You Sue Outside Workers’ Comp?

Illinois Workers’ Compensation FAQ

How long do I have to report a work injury?

Illinois requires reporting within 45 days, though same-day reporting is strongly recommended.

How long do I have to file an Illinois workers’ comp claim?

You have 3 years from injury or 2 years from last benefit payment.

Does workers’ comp pay for all medical treatment?

Yes — workers’ comp pays 100% of approved medical care.

Can I pick my own doctor?

Yes, under Illinois’ two-choice rule.

Do I need a lawyer?

Not legally — but injured workers with lawyers consistently receive higher settlements.