← WorkAid for workersField guide · 04 · California

Talking with your adjuster

How to keep clear, documented communication with the claims administrator handling your California claim.

Written for California workers' compensation claims. WorkAid helps you organize your own records — it isn't legal advice, and it doesn't replace the DWC or your insurer's systems.

The claims administrator — often called the adjuster — is the person managing your claim for the insurer or employer. Clear, documented communication keeps your claim moving and gives you a record if something is disputed. WorkAid never contacts them for you; you stay in control of every message.

Know who you're dealing with

Find the name, phone number, and email of the claims administrator assigned to your claim, and keep it handy. Your benefit notices usually list this.

Keep it factual, and in writing where you can

Stick to facts: what happened, what you need, and what you were told. When something important is agreed to by phone, follow up in writing so there's a record.

You don't need to have every answer. It's perfectly fine to ask what a notice means or what the next step is.

Log every contact

After each call or message, note the date, who you spoke with, what you asked for, what they promised, and any follow-up date. A simple, consistent log is one of the most useful things you can keep.

Keep in your file

For each contact, record:

  • The date and how you reached them (call, email, letter)
  • Who you spoke with
  • What you requested
  • What they promised, and any date they gave
  • The follow-up date you're waiting on

Primary sources

Official California resources — go to these for the authoritative details:

Keep it all in one place.

WorkAid gives you a private, living claim file to track payments, dates, documents, treatment, and communication — all in one place, under your control.

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