When you’re recovering from a workplace injury, a late workers’ compensation check can make it harder to cover rent, groceries and other everyday expenses. If you depend on these benefits while you’re unable to work, even a short delay can cause real stress. You don’t have to ignore the problem or assume your payments have ended.
Here are some steps you can take to address the delay.
Check your payment status
Start by reviewing your payment history and any notices from the insurance company. Confirm when you expected the check and whether the insurer sent it to your current mailing address or bank account. If the payment should have arrived already, contact the claims adjuster to ask whether the insurer issued it and what caused the delay.
Contact the insurance company
Ask the claims adjuster for a specific update on your payment. Find out whether the insurer needs additional information from you or has raised an issue with your claim. Keep notes of your conversations and save any written responses so you can track what the insurer tells you and when it expects to resolve the problem.
Under Arkansas Code § 11-9-802, the first installment generally falls due 15 days after the employer receives notice of the injury, with later payments typically due every two weeks. Certain delays can trigger additional payments, but exceptions apply, including when the insurer formally disputes liability.
Keep a record of the delay
Save payment notices, emails and messages about the missing check. Record the dates of calls, the names of the people you spoke with and any explanations they provided. Also, track overdue expenses that depend on your benefits. These records can help explain the problem if you need to challenge the delay.
Get help if the delay continues
If the insurer doesn’t explain the delay or fails to send the promised payment, consider discussing your claim with an Arkansas workers’ compensation attorney. They can review your payment history, check whether the insurer followed the required deadlines and explain what steps you can take to address unpaid benefits.
Address the delay before it creates more problems
A late workers’ compensation check doesn’t automatically mean your benefits have ended, but it’s worth addressing the delay promptly. Check your payment status, keep records of your communications and follow up if the insurer doesn’t resolve the issue. Staying organized can help you track outstanding payments and identify any problems that need attention.