What You Need to Know About Arizona’s Workers’ Compensation Waiting Period

In 2025, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the US workplace witnessed a decrease in fatal work injuries, with 5,283 deaths, down from 5,486 in 2023. Private employers reported 2.8 million non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses. Medically assessed injuries in the workplaces throughout the country were 4.53 million.How long will it take for an employee in Arizona to wait before receiving his compensation benefits? Arizona’s workers’ compensation waiting period is seven days. Employees must be unable to work for seven consecutive days before compensation begins. 

Let’s find out in this article everything you need to know about Arizona’s workers’ compensation waiting period. 

Understanding the Waiting Period in Arizona

The waiting period for a worker’s compensation claim gives room for the insurance company to conduct their investigation regarding your claim and verify its validity.

You may feel anxious about the financial difficulty, but being aware of the legal process can ease your burden. Document all your paperwork and keep following it up to stay updated on your claim status. 

By doing so, it could also expedite your communications with your employer and with the insurance company. Remember, the waiting period brings clarity to false claims and protects both the employee and employer. 

Duration of the Waiting Period

• Unfortunately, you are not entitled to any benefit for wage loss for a week in Arizona, and these restrictions may be a cause of concern for you if this is your only source of income.  
• Keep in mind that if your disability continues for more than seven days, then your benefits may start with the initial seven-day period. The injured worker will be paid for their waiting period.
• Stay updated with the status of your claim, especially if your injury takes longer to heal than usual. Keep the communication lines with your employer and the insurance adjuster open. 

What Benefits Do You Lose During the Waiting Period?

Under Arizona’s Workers’ Compensation Law, the seven-day waiting period directly affects several benefits. During this time, you won’t receive any temporary total disability benefits.

You can still access medical benefits, but you won’t get paid for lost wages until the waiting period ends. As a result, you’ll need to rely on your savings or another source of income to get by.

This delay can slow down your financial recovery. To avoid further setbacks, file your claim immediately after the injury and stay updated on the process. That way, you’ll be better prepared to handle any financial pressure that may come up.

Exceptions to the Standard Waiting Period

• Though it takes a seven-day waiting period for a worker’s compensation to begin in Arizona, there are some exceptions that will enable you to get your benefits sooner. 
• You can get compensated immediately if your injury causes you to be hospitalized or prevents you from working for more than fourteen days.
• The seven-day wait may not apply as well if you have sustained major injuries, such as catastrophic injuries or permanent disability.
• Inform your employer and the claim adjuster immediately about your case.
• Always maintain a record of your medical treatment and any correspondence concerning your claim.
• Stay educated about these exceptions so it can be easier for you to deal with the legal process in claiming your compensation benefits.

Dealing with the Claims Process During the Waiting Period

Understanding your rights and responsibilities can put you at an advantage while in the process of dealing with claims. 

File your injury report with your employer as soon as possible to start your claim process. Document your injury, medical records, and any and all correspondence with your employer about it. 

Consistently communicate with the insurance adjuster about your claim. If you are awaiting benefits, apply for short-term disability benefits. Be proactive in attending all medical appointments and following your doctor’s orders. 

Minimize your stress and ensure that you will receive your workers’ compensation benefits upon their availability by staying informed of your employee rights and by adhering to your state laws. 

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