HOW TO REOPEN A CLOSED OJCC CASE IN FLORIDA

How to Reopen a Closed OJCC Case in Florida

How to Reopen a Closed OJCC Case in Florida: A Step-by-Step Guide

If your Florida workers’ compensation claim was closed online do to a resolution of prior issues and you’re still in need of medical benefits or lost wages, filing a Petition for Benefits (PFB) will reopen your case. A closed case status on Florida’s Office of the Judges of Compensation Claims (OJCC) website does not always mean that your claim is closed.  A Petition for Benefits will reopen your case online.  The employer/carrier may assert defenses to your claim such as the Statute of Limitations (SOL) has run, the case was settled, or a final order was entered denying your claim which may result in the closure of your case but filing a Motion or Petition for Benefits will reopen your case online.  A closed case online is often administrative and lets the OJCC know there is no current litigation pending.  A closed case could also signify the case has been settled.  If the case has not been settled, an order has not been entered denying the claim, or the statute of limitations has not run, an injured worker is eligible for lifetime medical benefits. In this article, we’ll walk you through when and how to reopen a closed OJCC case and what you need to succeed.

When Can You Reopen a Workers’ Comp Case in Florida?

A closed case on the OJCC website does not mean that you are no longer entitled to benefits.  You can reopen a case on the OJCC website by filing a pleading.  This could be a Motion or Petition for Benefits.  A PFB should be filed whenever you are requesting medical treatment or lost wages.  As long as the case has not been settled, the statute of limitations has not run, and as long as an order has not been entered denying your entire claim, your case will be reopened each time a Petition for Benefits is filed.  The OJCC website will close your case each time an issue have been resolved or an order has been entered on claims contained in a Petition for Benefits. Each situation to reopen a case is different, and the clock may be ticking. Florida applies statutory deadlines to reopening so acting quickly could be critical.

Key Requirements for Reopening a Closed Workers’ Comp Case

Reopening a claim means file a pleading, motion or petition with the OJCC. Often medical records should be attached to the Petition for Benefits in order to meet the legal specificity requirements of filing a Petition for Benefits contained in the Florida Statutes via the e-JCC portal or OJCC website). 

If your PFB is filed and you are seeking medical benefits, your submission must include physician reports that indicate the requested treatment and directly connect your current condition to your original injury. The medical records should clearly state the recommended treatment and ideally, note that the work accident and injury is the major contributing cause and need for the treatment being recommended.  Accuracy and completeness are vital. Missed deadlines or incomplete filings can cause your request to be delayed or even denied, even if your case has merit.

“Injured Florida worker consulting with an attorney about reopening a closed OJCC workers’ compensation claim.”

How to File a Reopening Petition with the OJCC

To initiate the reopening process, follow these steps:

Gather your documentation.

Ensure all forms, medical records, reports, and supporting documents are current, relevant, and well-organized. Focus on collecting materials that directly support your grounds for reopening, whether it’s new medical evidence, updated diagnostic tests, or proof of clerical errors. The goal is to present a compelling case from the start.

File your petition.

Submit your completed petition for benefits (PFB) along with all supporting materials via the e-JCC portal or by mailing them to the appropriate OJCC office. Make sure all forms are signed filled out completely and meet procedural requirements. Filing errors or missing documents can result in processing delays or outright denial.

Track your submission.

Keep both digital and printed copies of everything you submit, including time- stamped confirmation receipts and cover letters. This documentation helps verify compliance with deadlines and protects you in case there’s a dispute about what was filed and when.

Follow up. Check the status of your petition for benefits regularly through the e-JCC portal or by contacting the OJCC clerk’s office. Be prepared to quickly provide additional documentation or clarification if requested, as responsiveness can influence how smoothly and quickly your case moves forward.


This process can be demanding, particularly if your case involves complex medical or legal questions. Mistakes or omissions can delay your claim or reduce your chances of success.

Why Legal Representation Makes a Difference

Reopening a workers’ comp case usually involves more than just paperwork; it often comes with a legal strategy. Insurance carriers and employers often have attorneys reviewing claims and preparing defenses. Without representation, you may be at a disadvantage. An experienced workers' comp attorney ensures:

- Your petition for benefits meets all legal and procedural requirements

- All supporting documents are properly prepared attached and submitted

- You’re properly represented during hearings and negotiations

- You meet important filing deadlines and protect your legal rights

The legal team at Vassallo, Bilotta & Davis has decades of experience handling OJCC worker's compensation proceedings throughout Palm Beach and Martin counties. We understand the nuances of these work comp cases and know how and when to file petitions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

If you’re planning to reopen a claim, steer clear of these missteps:

- Waiting too long. Florida imposes time limits and statutes of limitations (SOL). Don’t assume you have unlimited time.

- Insufficient documentation. Vague or missing details may weaken your claim and may lead to a dismissal or denial of work comp benefits.

- Incorrect filing method. Submitting to the wrong place, failing to properly serve the employer/carrier, or skipping required steps can invalidate your request for benefits.

- Trying to do it alone. Legal guidance and representation is crucial when facing trained adjusters and legal counsel from the defense.

Ready to Reopen Your OJCC Case? We Can Help

If you believe your closed worker's compensation claim deserves a second chance, don’t wait. Vassallo, Bilotta & Davis is here to guide you every step of the way. From evaluating your eligibility to compiling documentation and advocating in hearings, we provide comprehensive support to injured workers throughout South Florida. Contact us today for a free consultation. Our experienced Florida work comp attorneys will review your situation and help you pursue the workers’ compensation benefits you are entitled to.