How to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in South Carolina

July 24, 2025

How to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in South Carolina

If you’ve been injured on the job in South Carolina, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and recovery expenses. But filing a claim—and getting it approved—can be confusing without the right guidance.

At Beach Injury Lawyers, LLC, we help injured workers in Myrtle Beach and throughout South Carolina understand their rights and navigate the process.

Here’s what you need to know about how to file a workers’ compensation claim in South Carolina.

📝 Step 1: Report the Injury to Your Employer

The first step in any South Carolina workers’ compensation claim is reporting the injury to your employer immediately. By law, you have 90 days to notify your employer, but the sooner you do it, the better. Even if the injury seems minor or you’re unsure about the severity, always file a report—some symptoms take time to appear or worsen over time.

Be specific. Include the date, time, location, and details of the injury. Written documentation is best, and you should keep a personal copy.

🧾 Step 2: Seek Medical Attention from an Approved Provider

In South Carolina, your employer (or their insurance company) has the right to choose the doctor you see for treatment. If you go to an unauthorized doctor on your own, the insurance company may not cover the cost.

However, if your injury is an emergency, you can seek immediate care and follow up with the assigned provider afterward. Always ask your employer or HR department for a list of approved physicians.

📂 Step 3: File a Claim with the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission

While your employer is supposed to notify their insurance carrier of your injury, you also have the right to file a claim directly by submitting Form 50 to the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission.

You can submit the form:

Online via the SCWCC website
By mail to the Commission
With the assistance of an attorney

If your injury resulted in the death of a loved one, a Form 52 should be filed instead. You typically have up to two years from the date of the injury to file a claim—but don’t wait. Claims are much stronger when filed early.

🚫 What If Your Claim Is Denied?

If your workers’ comp claim is denied or undervalued, you have the right to request a hearing. You’ll present evidence before a commissioner who will decide whether your benefits should be approved or increased.

A denial is not the end of the road. An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can help you appeal the decision and prepare your case.

⚖️ Why You Should Talk to a Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Even if your claim seems straightforward, employers and insurers don’t always have your best interests in mind. A workers’ comp attorney can:

Ensure all deadlines are met
Help you gather medical and employment documentation
Challenge denied or delayed claims
Calculate the full value of your benefits
Negotiate on your behalf

At Beach Injury Lawyers, LLC, we fight to make sure you’re not left dealing with medical bills or lost income on your own. We handle all aspects of your case—so you can focus on healing.

💼 Need Help Filing Your Workers’ Comp Claim?

Don’t navigate the workers’ compensation system alone. Whether you’re filing your first claim or appealing a denial, we’re here to help.

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