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WorkSafeBC

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Claim review and appeal for workers and dependants

When you apply for workers' compensation benefits, a WorkSafeBC officer decides whether to allow the claim and what benefits you will receive. All decisions are based on the evidence, the Workers Compensation Act, and WorkSafeBC policy.

If you disagree with the WorkSafeBC decision and have not been provided with a decision letter, you should request a decision letter explaining the reasons for the decision. If you still disagree, you can have the decision reviewed. If you disagree with the review decision you can appeal it in most instances.

The Claims Review and Appeal Guide for Workers and Dependants (PDF 71kb) provides detailed information on how to request a review and file an appeal. Workers' Advisers are also available to assist and advise you on your claim.

New requests for review and/or appeal

  • The Review Division is the first level of review for most worker and employer issues.
    • On request, the Review Division provides impartial review of decisions made under the Workers Compensation Act.
    • Only those directly affected by a claim decision — that is, a worker, a deceased worker's dependant, or an employer — can request a review.
    • If you wish to have your decision reviewed by the Review Division, you must make a request within 90 days of the date of the decision. To make a request, submit a Request for Review (PDF 91kb) form.
    • The Review Division will generally make a decision within 150 days.

  • The Workers' Compensation Appeal Tribunal (WCAT) serves as the final level of appeal for the WorkSafeBC claims matters that it is authorized to hear and decide.
    • Only the parties affected by a Review Division claims decision — that is, a worker, a deceased worker's dependant, or an employer — can be appealed to WCAT.
    • If you have a decision from the Review Division and you wish to appeal to WCAT, you have 30 days from the date of the Review Division decision.
    • WCAT will generally provide its decision within 180 days.

Previous appeal bodies

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