If you have suffered an on-the-job injury, or a "work comp injury" as they are referred to in the parlance used by some companies, you may be eligible to receive health care benefits and financial payments to help your family as you recover. However, in most states, you will be required to submit paperwork and other evidence in order to prove that your injury falls under the guidelines set forth in all applicable state laws. In most situations, you can begin this process by completing the accident report or injury report that your employer is required to provide to you within 24-48 hours after the injury occurs. Although many states allow injured workers a period of up to one year after the accident to file a workers' compensation claim, most legal experts agree that it is in your best interest to file a claim as soon as possible after the incident. Unless your medical condition prevents you from dealing with the paperwork, you have nothing to gain from delaying the claims process. Indeed, the fact that you waited to file a claim may be considered as evidence against your claims of injury. If you are having trouble filling out your claims paperwork or have not been provided with the right forms by your employer, contact a representative of your state's workers' compensation board.