When can you close a claims file?

• A. When all benefits that are due and payable have been paid
• B. When the employee has returned to work
• C. When temporary disability has ended
• D. When the last payment of permanent disability has been made

Answer: (A)

Closing a workers’ compensation claim file happens when there are no remaining obligations tied to that claim. The defining moment is when all benefits due and payable have been paid or otherwise resolved, so there are no future entitlements outstanding. This ensures the file accurately reflects that the insurer has fulfilled all liabilities related to the claim.

Relying on a return to work, the end of temporary disability, or the last permanent disability payment alone doesn’t guarantee there won’t be other obligations—there can be ongoing medical benefits, future medical costs, or other entitlements still pending. Thus, the correct trigger is that all benefits due and payable have been satisfied.