Undocumented Worker Claims

Can Undocumented Workers File for Workers’ Compensation in Colorado?

Yes. In Colorado, you do not need to be a U.S. citizen or have legal immigration status to receive workers’ compensation benefits. If you’re working — legally or not — and you’re injured while doing your job, you are covered.

It is illegal for an employer or insurance company to deny your claim based solely on immigration status.

You are entitled to:

• Medical treatment
• Wage replacement (with some restrictions)
• Compensation for permanent disability
• Mileage reimbursement for travel to doctors
• Protection from retaliation for filing a claim

And most importantly: filing a workers’ compensation claim is not the same as reporting your immigration status. The system is separate from immigration enforcement.

Types of Injuries Immigrant Workers Often Face

Immigrant and undocumented workers are often employed in physically demanding jobs, including:

• Construction
• Landscaping
• Hospitality and cleaning services
• Agriculture
• Manufacturing
• Food processing and restaurant work

These jobs carry high injury risks. We’ve helped clients with:

• Back and neck injuries from heavy lifting
• Falls from ladders or rooftops
• Machine-related accidents and amputations
• Burns and chemical exposure
• Cuts, fractures, and crushed limbs
• Repetitive stress injuries
• Heatstroke or cold exposure
• Long-term respiratory illness

Don’t let fear keep you from getting the medical care and financial help you need. The law is on your side.

What Benefits Can You Receive?

As an immigrant worker, if your claim is approved, you may be eligible for:

• 100% of medical costs related to your injury
• Weekly wage replacement while you’re out of work (Temporary Total Disability)
• Permanent impairment benefits if you don’t fully recover
• Compensation for travel to and from medical appointments
• Vocational rehab in some cases

There are some limits on wage replacement for undocumented workers, depending on your ability to return to work. But Kaplan Morrell can help you get every benefit available under the law.

Why Immigrant Workers Trust Kaplan Morrell

We’ve worked with thousands of Colorado workers from every background, and we know how hard immigrant workers fight for their families. You don’t need to speak perfect English. You don’t need to be a citizen. You just need a team that will fight for your health, your future, and your dignity.

Here’s what you can expect from us:

• Respect, compassion, and confidentiality
• No questions about immigration status
• Bilingual staff available (se habla español)
• No fees unless we win your case

“They never judged me. They explained everything, helped me get to my doctor, and made sure I had money while I was out of work. I’m so thankful I found Kaplan Morrell.” — Former Client, Greeley, CO

What to Do If You’re an Injured Immigrant Worker

1. Report your injury to your supervisor within 4 days (in writing if possible).
2. Ask for medical treatment and keep all documents.
3. Do not let fear of immigration stop you from filing a claim.
4. Call Kaplan Morrell — we’ll walk with you through every step.

No Papers? No Problem. You Still Have Rights.

At Kaplan Morrell, we protect workers — not just paperwork. If you’ve been hurt on the job and you’re undocumented or unsure of your legal status, you still deserve treatment, compensation, and respect.

📞 Call us today or reach out online for a free consultation. We’re here for workers across Colorado — no matter your background.