Why was my claim denied?

Common reasons include late notice to employer, disputes over whether the injury is work-related, pre-existing condition arguments, and missed deadlines [§ 11-9-702].

Can I appeal a denial?

Yes. Claims filed with the Arkansas Workers' Compensation Commission; heard by an administrative law judge [§ 11-9-705]. Appeal to the Full Commission, then to the Arkansas Court of Appeals and Arkansas Supreme Court.

How long does the appeal process take?

Timelines vary by case complexity and hearing office backlog. Appeals to higher courts can take longer.

Should I get an attorney for a denied claim?

Strongly recommended. Denied claims involve complex medical and legal issues, and an experienced attorney can navigate the dispute resolution process effectively.

Topic guideUpdated 2026-02-27

Denied Workers' Comp Claims in Arkansas — Your Options

What to do when your Arkansas workers' compensation claim is denied, including dispute resolution and appeals.

Having your workers' compensation claim denied does not mean you have no options. In Arkansas, you have the right to challenge a denial §11-9-705.

Common Reasons for Denial

Claims are frequently denied for these reasons:

Late notice to employer (must be within Employee must report the injury to the employer on a form prescribed by the Commission; no fixed statutory period, but the employer is not responsible for benefits prior to receipt of the report) §11-9-701

Dispute over whether the injury is work-related

Pre-existing condition arguments

Missed medical appointments or non-compliance with treatment

Filing deadline expired (2 years from date of injury; additional compensation within 1 year from last payment of compensation or 2 years from injury, whichever is greater) §11-9-702

The Dispute Resolution Process

Claims filed with the Arkansas Workers' Compensation Commission; heard by an administrative law judge §11-9-705.

Appeals

Appeal to the Full Commission, then to the Arkansas Court of Appeals and Arkansas Supreme Court.

Independent Medical Examination (IME)

Commission may order an IME; employer may also request an IME at its expense §11-9-511. The IME results can significantly impact your claim.

⚠If the insurer requests an IME, you must attend. Failure to appear can result in suspension of benefits.

✓Before attending an IME arranged by the insurer, consult with an attorney. You have the right to have your own medical evidence reviewed and considered.

Prepare for Your Consultation

Quick checklist (Workers’ Compensation)

Gather these before your first consultation.

Incident report

(employer report, date/time of injury)

Medical records

(doctor visits, diagnoses, treatment plans)

Wage documentation

(pay stubs, tax returns, employment records)

General preparation tips only. Specific needs depend on your state and claim type.

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Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

General answers to common questions. Specific outcomes depend on your facts and timing.

If you have a deadline, court notice, or upcoming hearing, mention it when requesting assistance so timing can be evaluated promptly.

Read →

Independent Medical Exams (IME) in Arkansas Workers' Comp

Read →

Arkansas Workers' Comp Settlements & Hearings — What to Expect

Read →

Legal authoritiesStatutes referenced on this page

Ark. Code Ann. § 11-9-705

Dispute Resolution Process

Claims filed with the Arkansas Workers' Compensation Commission; heard by an administrative law judge.

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Verified 2026-07-20 · quarterly review

Ark. Code Ann. § 11-9-701

Notice Deadline

Timely notice requirement: Employee must report the injury to the employer on a form prescribed by the Commission; no fixed statutory period, but the employer is not responsible for benefits prior to receipt of the report.

Employee must report the injury to the employer on a form prescribed by the Commission; no fixed statutory period, but the employer is not responsible for benefits prior to receipt of the report

View →

Verified 2026-07-29 · quarterly review

Ark. Code Ann. § 11-9-702

Filing Deadline

Statute of limitations: 2 years from date of injury; additional compensation within 1 year from last payment of compensation or 2 years from injury, whichever is greater.