Lesionados

Immediate steps after an injury
Worker benefits
Rights & Obligations of the Injured
FAQs

Key Information for the Injured Worker

Doesn't your employer have a valid policy?

Even if your employer doesn't have an active policy with the SIFC, you have the right to file a complaint if you were in an accident at work or occupational disease.

Services offered by the SIFC

Once your case is filed, the SIFC will provide free medical services, which include:

Visits to specialists
Medications
Diagnostic studies

You can also receive financial compensation for temporary disability (diets), if your case is medically related and meets legal criteria.

Disability and financial compensation

Who determines if I have a disability?

Your primary care physician assigned by the SIFC is the one who evaluates and determines if your condition causes any disability.

Am I entitled to diets during my break?

Yes, if your case is compensable. You will receive between $30 and $100 weekly, up to a maximum of 312 weeks.

How is the payment made?

Por check or through the Worker's Compensation Card (TCT), which you must activate upon receiving it.

What if I don't receive payment?

You can check the status in the Office of Diet Information and Citizens Assistance, presenting a photo identification.

Managing appointments, documents and personal data

What happens if I miss a doctor's appointment?

You must justify your absence in the next few 10 days in the Office of Medical Control, with the Justification of Absence Form.

How do I claim a lost check?

Please contact the Dietary Information Office, especially if you live outside of Puerto Rico.

Did I lose the TCT?

Immediately notify the nearest CFSE office for Cancel it and request a new one.

How do I update my address?

Visit the Dietary Information Office with a water, electricity or telephone bill and complete the Change of Address Form.

Filing cases and emergencies

How long do I have to file my case?

Accidents: Within the 5 working days following the event.
Occupational diseases: until 3 years since the disability arises or is related to work.

Can I go to a private hospital in case of emergency?

Yes. In real emergencies, you can go to a private hospital. Then, you must report to the CFSE to continue your treatment.

Steps to Take When Suffering an Accident

What if the accident happened outside the office?

You have the right to services if you were participating in an activity authorized by your employer. You must provide evidence of such authorization.

Problems with the Employer's Report

What to do if the employer does not want to complete it?

You can go to a dispensary, regional office or to the Industrial Hospital and present a Voluntary Report.

Steps to Take When Suffering an Accident

What if there are discrepancies between you and your employer?

The employer can write them down in the report. The SIFC may initiate a research and will notify both parties of the result.

Other common situations

Can I receive compensation if my case is under investigation?

Compensation is not paid until the case is determined to be compensable. If it is, you will receive retroactive payment from the date of filing.

Am I covered when leaving my house for work?

No, unless your employer has authorized you in writing to work outside your regular area.

When should I return to work after being discharged?

You have 15 days to reintegrate you. It is recommended Notify your employer immediately.

Review and Appeal

Can I appeal decisions of the SIFC?

Yes. You have 30 days to appeal to the Industrial Commission for situations such as:

Medical treatment
Unrecognized disability
Unpaid diets

Do you need more information?

Also check out these key sections:

Steps to Take When Suffering an Accident
Rights and Obligations of the Injured
Information for Employers

Official website of the Government of Puerto Rico

Table of Contents

Immediate steps after an injury

Worker benefits

Rights & Obligations of the Injured

FAQs