FAQs - Workers' Compensation
- What is workers' compensation?
- Who is covered by workers' compensation?
- When do I become covered for workers' compensation benefits?
- How much does workers' compensation cost?
- How does this affect my own health insurance?
- Who administers the workers' compensation claim?
- Can I lose my job because of a workers' compensation injury?
- What happens if I'm injured on the job?
- How do I report an accident that happens to an employee? A student? A visitor?
- How do I report an unsafe condition?
Q: What is workers' compensation?
A: Workers' Compensation is a state-mandated, employer-paid benefit for employees with work-related injuries and illnesses. It is is provided without regard to who is at fault.
Q: Who is covered by workers' compensation?
A: San José State University employees, including faculty, student assistants, work-study students and appointed volunteers are covered.
Q: When do I become covered for workers' compensation benefits?
A: Coverage begins the first minute you are on the job and continues anytime you are working. You do not have to work a certain amount of time or earn a particular salary before you are covered. Coverage is automatic and immediate.
Q: How much does workers' compensation cost?
A: There is no charge to you, the employee. If you qualify for Workers' Compensation, all approved medical bills will be paid plus any compensation you may be entitled to.
Q: How does this affect my own health insurance?
A: Workers' Compensation is separate from your personal health care insurance. There are no deductibles or co-payments. Workers' Compensation covers work-related injuries and illnesses. It is important for you to let your treating doctor know if your injury is work-related.
Q: Who administers workers' compensation claims?
A: Sedgwick CMS is the Third Party Administrator (TPA); the claims management firm that administers San José State University's Workers' Compensation claims and determines Workers' Compensation benefits eligibility. Sedwick's phone number is 510-302-3041.
Q: Can I lose my job because of a workers' compensation claim?
A: The law prohibits the University from discharging an employee or discriminating against an employee because of a Workers' Compensation injury.
Q: What happens if I'm injured on the job?
A: All employees are covered under Workers’ Compensation insurance. For more information, contact Workers’ Compensation.
Q: How do I report an accident that happens to an employee? A student? A visitor?
A: Visit Employee Injuries & Accidents, Student Accidents, or Visitor Accidents & Filing A Claim Against SJSU.
Q: How do I report an unsafe condition?
A: If the unsafe condition is an emergency situation, such as a fire, immediately call 911, the University Police Department at 924-2222 or use any blue light on campus.
