Short Answer

In North Carolina workers’ compensation cases, you typically need two identifiers: the North Carolina Industrial Commission (NCIC) File Number and the insurance carrier’s internal claim number. To locate them and the adjuster’s contact, gather the injured worker’s full legal name, date of birth, date of injury, employer’s name and location, and any forms or letters already received (for example, NCIC Form 18/19 or carrier letters). If those are missing, use the NCIC’s coverage search and file the proper forms to generate an NCIC File Number.

Understanding the Problem

You want to quickly identify the correct claim number and insurance adjuster for a North Carolina workers’ compensation claim so you can move the case forward. The immediate decision point is: what specific information must you have ready to locate the file and get the right person on the phone or by email? Here, counsel initially lacked the claim number but later obtained it with the adjuster’s contact, and the client is still waiting on lien documentation.

Apply the Law

North Carolina workers’ compensation claims run through the North Carolina Industrial Commission (NCIC). There are two common identifiers: the NCIC File Number (assigned when a claim is filed with the Commission) and the insurer’s internal claim number (assigned by the carrier after the employer reports the injury). Employers must secure coverage and report injuries to the insurer, and an adjuster is typically assigned. One core timing rule: an employee should file NCIC Form 18 to preserve a claim; North Carolina law generally requires filing within two years of the injury.

Key Requirements

• Two identifiers: The NCIC File Number and the insurer’s claim number are distinct; either can help you locate the adjuster.
• Core data points: Full legal name, date of birth, date of injury, employer’s name/location, and last four digits of the SSN are commonly requested to search a claim.
• Triggering documents: NCIC Form 18 (employee claim) or Form 19 (employer report) often leads to assignment of numbers and an adjuster.
• Proof of coverage: Employers must carry workers’ comp coverage; carrier identity can be confirmed through official coverage tools.
• Authorization and representation: Carriers may require a signed authorization (e.g., NCIC Form 25C) and a letter of representation before sharing details.
• Preserve deadlines: Filing the claim with NCIC on time protects rights while you track identifiers.

What the Statutes Say

• North Carolina Gen. Stat. § 97-24 (Filing deadline) - Generally bars compensation if a claim is not filed within two years.
• North Carolina Gen. Stat. § 97-93 (Insurance and posting) - Requires employers to secure coverage and provide notice.
• North Carolina Gen. Stat. § 97-10.2 (Third-party claims and lien) - Addresses the workers’ compensation lien in third-party cases.

Analysis

Apply the Rule to the Facts: Because counsel now has the insurer’s claim number and the adjuster’s contact, the remaining step is to get the lien documentation. Provide the adjuster your letter of representation, a signed authorization if requested, and the key identifiers (name, DOB, DOI, employer) so the carrier can release a written lien itemization. If the adjuster remains nonresponsive, confirm coverage and team contacts using the NCIC tools and escalate within the carrier while preserving the underlying claim.

Process & Timing

1. Who files: The injured worker or attorney. Where: North Carolina Industrial Commission. What: File NCIC Form 18 to open/preserve the claim and obtain an NCIC File Number; use NCIC Form 25C for medical authorization if needed. When: File Form 18 generally within two years of the date of injury.
2. Identify the insurer if unknown using the NCIC Insurance Coverage Search at NCIC Coverage Search; then contact the carrier’s workers’ compensation intake to request the adjuster assignment using the core data points.
3. Send a written request to the adjuster for the claim number (if still needed) and a lien itemization under the workers’ compensation statute, attaching your letter of representation and signed authorization. Follow up by phone and email; request a supervisor or team inbox if there’s no response.

Exceptions & Pitfalls

• Wrong carrier or self-insured employer: Verify coverage through the NCIC Coverage Search to avoid chasing the wrong insurer.
• Name or date mismatch: Use the legal name and correct date of injury; nicknames or wrong dates can stall searches.
• No authorization on file: Carriers may decline to discuss details without a signed release or proof of representation.
• Multiple claims: Confirm the correct file by DOI and employer to avoid mixing records.
• No NCIC File Number yet: If none exists, file Form 18 to generate one so the claim can be tracked consistently.

Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney

If you're dealing with locating a workers’ compensation claim number and adjuster contact so you can secure lien documentation, our firm has experienced attorneys who can help you understand your options and timelines. Call us today at [919-341-7055].

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about North Carolina law based on the single question stated above. It is not legal advice for your specific situation and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws, procedures, and local practice can change and may vary by county. If you have a deadline, act promptly and speak with a licensed North Carolina attorney.