What Is a C-3 Form and How Do Injured Workers File a Claim in New York?

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• June 23, 2025

What Is a C-3 Form and Why Is It Important for Injured Workers in NYC?

Quick Answer: In New York, a C-3 form is the “Employee Claim Form” used to report a work-related injury or illness to the Workers’ Compensation Board, officially initiating the claims process. Injured workers must file this form, along with any required supplemental forms like the Limited Release of Health Information (C-3.3) if applicable, to formally notify the Board of their claim and begin receiving benefits.

Here’s a breakdown of the process:

• Reporting the Injury: As soon as possible after a workplace injury or illness, the injured worker should notify their employer. This initial notification is crucial and often required before filing the C-3 form.
• Filing the C-3 Form: The injured worker then needs to file a C-3 form directly with the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board. This can be done efficiently online through the Workers’ Compensation Board website, which is typically the fastest method, or by mail to the address provided on the form.
• Supplemental Forms: If the injury or illness is related to a previous work-related condition, the injured worker will also need to file supplemental forms, such as the Limited Release of Health Information form (C-3.3), to allow access to relevant prior medical records.
• Doctor’s Role: In addition to the C-3 form filed by the worker, medical professionals play a critical role. Injured workers need to seek medical care from a doctor who is authorized to treat workers’ compensation cases. This doctor will then file their own separate report (typically a C-4.0 form) with the Workers’ Compensation Board, detailing the diagnosis and treatment plan.
• Time Limits: New York law sets specific time limits for filing claims. Workers must generally file a C-3 claim within two years from the date of the injury or the onset of the occupational illness. For specific conditions like occupational hearing loss, there is a three-month window to report the injury to the employer and a 90-day period to file the claim with the Board.

For questions or help with filing your C-3 Form, contact our NYC workers comp lawyers at (646) 647-3398. Our team is here to guide you through the process and make sure your rights are protected.

Who Needs to File a C-3 Form in New York Workers’ Comp Cases?

If you’ve been hurt on the job in New York City, you may need to file a C-3 Form to get workers’ compensation benefits. This form is used to start your claim with the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board. It tells the board how your injury happened and what kind of help you need.

The person who was injured at work is the one who needs to file the C-3 Form. This includes full-time, part-time, seasonal, and temporary workers in nearly every industry across NYC.

Here are some situations where you must file a C-3 Form:

• You got hurt while doing your job. For example, if you twisted your back lifting heavy boxes at a Bronx warehouse.
• You developed a work-related illness over time. Like breathing issues from toxic fumes while working at a construction site in Manhattan.
• You were injured in a fall, accident, or repeated motion. Like slipping on a wet floor in a Brooklyn restaurant or carpal tunnel from computer use in a Queens office.

Important: Even if your employer already knows about the injury, you must still file your own C-3 Form to protect your claim.

If you are too injured to file it yourself, a family member, friend, or legal representative may be able to help complete it on your behalf. But it is always the injured worker’s responsibility to make sure it is filed on time.

If you’re unsure whether you need to file a C-3 Form, or if your employer has already submitted a different form, it’s still a good idea to submit your own. Filing ensures your version of the injury is officially recorded with the state workers’ compensation system.

For questions or help with filing your C-3 Form, contact The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398. Our team is here to guide you through the process and make sure your rights are protected.

When Should You Submit a C-3 Form After a Workplace Injury in NYC?

If you’ve been hurt at work in New York City, it’s important to act quickly. One of the first steps in the workers’ compensation process is filling out and submitting a C-3 Form. This form tells the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board about your injury and starts your claim for benefits.

You should submit the C-3 Form as soon as possible after your injury. The law gives you up to two years to file. However, waiting can hurt your case. Filing early helps ensure you don’t miss deadlines, and it shows you took the injury seriously.

Here’s a general timeline:

• Immediately after the injury: Report the injury to your employer, ideally in writing. You must do this within 30 days.
• Within a few days to a few weeks: Submit your C-3 Form to the Workers’ Compensation Board. The sooner, the better.

Even if you think the injury is minor, it’s smart to file the C-3. Some issues get worse over time, and delays may raise questions about your claim.

Example: If you hurt your back lifting boxes in a Bronx warehouse but wait six months to file, the insurer might argue the injury wasn’t work-related. Filing early helps avoid that problem.

Also keep in mind, certain benefits—like lost wages—may not be paid until the form is filed. If you delay, you may delay your benefits.

If you’re unsure about when or how to file, you don’t have to handle it alone. The Orlow Firm helps injured workers in NYC understand their rights and can assist you through every step of the process. Call (646) 647-3398 for a free consultation.

How Do You Fill Out a C-3 Form Correctly in New York?

Filling out a C-3 Form properly is a key step if you’ve been hurt on the job in New York City. The form tells the New York Workers’ Compensation Board about your injury and starts your claim. Filling it out the right way can help you get important benefits like medical care and lost wages.

Here are some steps to help you complete the C-3 Form correctly:

1. Use your full legal name and contact information on the form. Make sure your address, phone number, and email are current so you don’t miss important updates.
2. Give details about your job , including your job title, how long you’ve worked there, and the name and address of your employer. Be as accurate as possible to avoid confusion later.
3. Explain how the injury happened . Describe the event clearly and simply. For example: “I slipped on a wet floor while carrying a box” or “I was lifting heavy equipment and felt pain in my back.”
4. Include the date and time of the injury . If you don’t remember the exact time, give your best estimate. Try to be as accurate as possible.
5. List the body parts that were injured . Be specific. For example, say “right shoulder and lower back” instead of just “back injury.”
6. Note if anyone saw the accident . If a coworker or supervisor was present, include their name. Witnesses can support your claim if there are questions later.
7. Describe any medical treatment you’ve received . Include the names of doctors, clinics, or hospitals if you have them. Also note the dates you got treated, if you remember.
8. Say whether you’ve missed work . If your injury kept you from working, include the last day you were on the job. You should also add if you’ve returned to work or not.

Make sure everything is clear, honest, and complete before you sign and date the form. Even small mistakes or leaving out details can delay your benefits.

In New York, you can file the C-3 Form online through the Workers’ Compensation Board’s website, or you can mail a paper form. Be sure to keep a copy of everything you submit for your records.

If you’re unsure about how to fill out a section, it may help to speak with someone familiar with workers’ compensation. Having guidance can give you peace of mind and help avoid mistakes.

For help with your C-3 Form or if you’ve been hurt at work in New York City, you can contact The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a free and confidential consultation.

What Information Is Required on the C-3 Form NYC?

The C-3 Form is a key part of filing a workers’ compensation claim in New York. It tells the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board about your injury or illness and how it happened. To file the form correctly, you’ll need to provide detailed and accurate information about your job, the incident, and your medical treatment. Here’s what the form usually asks for:

• Your personal information: This includes your full name, address, phone number, date of birth, and Social Security number.
• Your employer’s details: You’ll need to give the name, address, and phone number of the company you worked for when you got hurt.
• Job information: Include your job title, how long you worked there, and how many hours you normally worked each week.
• Details about the incident: You must explain when and where the injury occurred, and describe what you were doing when you got hurt. Be as specific as possible — for example, “I slipped on a wet floor near the loading dock on May 2nd at 10:30 a.m.”
• Description of injuries: List all parts of your body that were injured. For example, “Lower back pain and right knee swelling.” Mention if the injury happened all at once (a fall) or developed over time (like repetitive motion injuries).
• Medical treatment: Include the name and address of the doctor, clinic, or hospital where you received care. Also note when you first got treatment and whether you are still being treated.
• Time missed from work: If the injury caused you to miss work, provide the dates you were out. If you’re still out of work, check the box that says so.
• Witnesses: If anyone saw the injury happen, list their names. This helps support your version of events.
• Legal representation: If you’ve hired a lawyer to help with your claim, include their contact information. It’s okay to file the form before you hire legal help, too.

Answer all questions clearly and truthfully. Do not leave important fields blank. If you’re unsure about something, you can say so, but guesswork may delay your claim. Also, be careful not to downplay or exaggerate your injury — the form should reflect the facts.

Filing the C-3 Form correctly helps protect your right to get medical care and wage benefits. If you have questions about any part of the form or the process, contacting a workers’ comp attorney can make a big difference. The Orlow Firm is here to help. Call us today at (646) 647-3398 for a free consultation about your workers’ compensation claim.

Where Do You Submit the C-3 Form in New York?

In New York, injured workers must submit the C-3 Form to the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB). This form is required to start a formal workers’ compensation claim. You can submit the form in several ways, depending on what is easiest for you.

Here are the accepted methods to file your C-3 Form:

• Online: You can file electronically using the Workers’ Compensation Board’s online portal called eCase. This is often the fastest and most convenient option. You can also email the form.
• By Mail: You can mail a completed paper C-3 form to the Workers’ Compensation Board. Be sure to send it to the correct district office that covers your location in New York City. The addresses are listed on the WCB website or can be confirmed by calling the board directly at (877) 632-4996.
• In Person: You can also hand-deliver the completed form to a Workers’ Compensation Board office near you. There are WCB offices in every borough of NYC, including Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and the Bronx.

No matter how you submit it, make sure the form is fully completed and accurate. Incomplete forms can cause delays or even lead to claim denials. Keep a copy for your own records as proof that you’ve filed the claim.

If you’re unsure where to send the form or how to file, you can call the Workers’ Compensation Board at 877-632-4996. You can also contact The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for guidance on how to correctly file your C-3 Form and protect your workers’ compensation rights.

What Happens After You File a C-3 Form in NYC?

Once you file a C-3 Form with the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board, several things happen next. This is the first official step in starting your workers’ compensation claim. It lets the Board and your employer’s insurance company know that you were injured at work and need benefits.

Here’s what typically happens after you submit your C-3 Form:

• Confirmation of Filing: After your form is submitted, you should receive confirmation from the Workers’ Compensation Board that your claim has been received. If you submitted the form online, you may receive an email confirmation. If mailed, the timeline may be longer.
• Notification to Employer and Insurance Company: The Workers’ Compensation Board will notify your employer and their workers’ compensation insurance carrier. This alerts them that a claim has been filed and starts the process of investigation.
• Investigation and Documentation: The insurance company will begin looking into your claim. They may request medical records, accident reports, or statements from you and your employer. It’s important to respond to any reasonable requests and continue attending all medical appointments.
• Initial Payments (If Approved): If your claim is approved, you may begin receiving benefits for lost wages and medical care. These payments are typically made every two weeks while you’re unable to work.
• Medical Treatment Approval: In many cases, the workers’ compensation insurance must approve medical treatments. Keep records of all treatments and verify that your provider is authorized by the Workers’ Compensation Board.
• Hearing or Review (If Needed): If there is a dispute in your case—for example, if the insurance company denies your claim—a Workers’ Compensation Law Judge may schedule a hearing. You’ll have a chance to present your side and any evidence during the hearing.

It’s important to act quickly and keep organized records. Missing deadlines or not providing requested information can delay your benefits.

If you’re unsure about the process or feel overwhelmed, speaking with a workers’ compensation lawyer may help you better understand your rights. To learn more or get support with your claim, call The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a free consultation.

What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a C-3 Form?

Filing a C-3 Form is a key step for workers injured on the job in New York City. This form starts the process of a workers’ compensation claim. But even small mistakes can delay your benefits or hurt your case. Here are some common mistakes to avoid and why they matter.

• Waiting too long to file: The C-3 Form should be submitted as soon as possible after the injury. While the deadline is two years from the date of injury, waiting too long can make it harder to prove what happened or get proper medical evidence.
• Leaving out important details: Some people rush through the form and forget to include key facts, such as the exact date, time, and place of the injury. Be specific and clear when describing how the injury occurred.
• Giving unclear or inconsistent information: Your answers on the C-3 Form should match what you tell your doctor, employer, and insurance company. If your stories don’t line up, your claim may be questioned or even denied.
• Not reporting all injuries: Even if an injury seems minor at first, it’s important to include it on the form. Many injuries worsen over time, so leaving something off could result in losing the chance to get help for it later.
• Using technical or vague language: Avoid using confusing words or short phrases that don’t clearly explain your injury. Use plain language to describe what happened, what part of your body was hurt, and how it’s affecting you now.
• Failing to sign and date the form: This may seem simple, but unsigned or undated forms are not valid. That means your claim won’t be processed until the mistake is fixed, causing delays.
• Not keeping a copy for your records: Always keep a copy of the completed form for your own records. It can help if questions come up later or if your form is lost or misplaced.
• Submitting it to the wrong place: The form must be sent to the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board. Sending it only to your employer or the insurance company is not enough to start your official claim.

It’s normal to feel stressed or confused after a workplace injury. If you’re unsure how to fill out the C-3 Form or worried about making mistakes, you don’t have to go through it alone. For guidance with your workers’ compensation claim in NYC, call The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a free consultation.

Do You Need a Lawyer to Help with a C-3 Form in New York?

Technically, you don’t need a lawyer to fill out and submit a C-3 Form in New York. However, having a lawyer by your side can make the process easier, especially if your case is more complex or if there’s a chance your claim could be denied later on. The C-3 Form is your formal report to the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board. It tells them how, when, and where you were injured on the job. Mistakes on this form can lead to delays or issues with your benefits.

Here are a few reasons why many injured workers choose to work with a lawyer:

• They make sure everything is complete: Lawyers help ensure you include all required information—like dates, job duties, and medical care—so your claim isn’t denied for being incomplete.
• They help avoid common mistakes: Even small errors, like getting your employer’s name wrong or skipping important medical details, can slow down your claim or hurt your case.
• They know how to handle disputed cases: If your employer or their insurance company contests the claim, a lawyer can help you gather proof and represent you during hearings.
• They keep everything on schedule: There are strict deadlines in workers’ comp cases. Missing one could mean your benefits are denied. A lawyer helps you stay on track.
• They explain your rights: Many workers don’t realize they may be eligible for more than just basic wage benefits. A lawyer can help you understand the full range of benefits you could receive.

For example, suppose a construction worker in New York City hurts his back on the job. He fills out the C-3 Form himself but forgets to mention that he already told his supervisor about the injury. Later, the employer denies the claim, saying it wasn’t reported. A lawyer would likely catch that missing detail before submitting the form and help provide supporting evidence.

Keep in mind: While not required, consulting an attorney early in the process may help you avoid problems later. It’s also helpful if your injuries are serious, or if you’re unsure about what to put on the form.

If you’ve been injured at work in NYC and have questions about the C-3 Form or the workers’ compensation process, call The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a free and confidential consultation. We’re here to help you protect your rights and get the benefits you may be entitled to under New York law.

FAQs About the C-3 Form and Workers Compensation in NYC

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the C-3 Form and workers’ compensation in New York City:

• What is a C-3 Form? The C-3 Form is an official document you file with the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board. It starts your claim for benefits after a work-related injury or illness. This form tells the Board what happened and why you need medical treatment or wage replacement.
• Who needs to file the C-3 Form? Any worker in New York who gets hurt on the job or becomes sick due to work conditions should file this form. This includes full-time, part-time, seasonal, and undocumented workers. If you were injured while doing your job, you may be eligible to file.
• Is the C-3 Form the same as reporting to my employer? No. Filing a C-3 Form is different from notifying your employer. You must tell your employer about the injury within 30 days. Then, you must file the C-3 Form with the state as soon as possible, but no later than two years after the injury or illness began.
• How do I get the C-3 Form? You can get a C-3 Form online through the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board website. You can submit it online, by mail, or in person. The form is free to access and file.
• What happens after I file the C-3 Form? After you file, the Workers’ Compensation Board reviews your case. They may ask for medical records or other documents. You may also need to attend a hearing. If approved, you could receive benefits like medical care and lost wages.
• What if I make a mistake on the C-3 Form? Reporting incorrect or incomplete details can slow down your claim or even cause a denial. If you realize there’s a mistake, contact the Workers’ Compensation Board or a qualified attorney right away to correct it.
• Can I still file if I already paid my own medical bills? Yes, but it’s important to file quickly. If your claim is approved, you may be reimbursed for certain medical costs. Keep all receipts and records of treatment.
• Do I need a lawyer to file the C-3 Form? You can file the C-3 Form on your own. However, workers’ compensation claims in NYC can be confusing, especially if your employer or their insurance challenges the claim. Having a lawyer can help you avoid delays and protect your rights.

If you were injured on the job in NYC and have questions about filing a C-3 Form, The Orlow Firm is here to help. Call (646) 647-3398 for a free and confidential consultation to learn more about your options.

Contact The Orlow Firm for a Free Consultation About Your C-3 Form and Workers Comp Claim

If you were hurt at work in New York City, starting your workers’ compensation claim is an important step— and the C-3 Form plays a key role in this process. The Orlow Firm understands how confusing and stressful this time can be. Whether you are unsure how to fill out the form or just need help making sure it’s done correctly, we’re here to help.

A free consultation with The Orlow Firm can help you:

• Understand if you’re eligible: We’ll explain whether your injury qualifies for workers’ comp in New York.
• Complete your C-3 Form properly: Mistakes on the form can delay or deny your benefits. We help you avoid common errors.
• Protect your legal rights: Speaking with an attorney ensures you know what to do next, especially if your claim is denied or questioned.
• Get support throughout your claim: We guide you beyond the paperwork, including if hearings or appeals are needed.

Even if your injury seems minor now, delays or missed steps can harm your claim. You don’t have to go through it alone. Our team has helped many injured workers in New York City file and manage their claims from start to finish.

Call The Orlow Firm today at (646) 647-3398 to schedule your free consultation. We’ll take the time to answer your questions and explain your rights in clear, simple terms. There’s no cost to speak with us, and no pressure to make decisions on the spot.

When it comes to workplace injuries and the C-3 Form, peace of mind starts with the right information. Let The Orlow Firm help you take that first step forward.

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