How long does a WSIAT Appeal take?

Every appeal is different. How long your appeal takes depends on things like how ready it is to move forward, how complex the issues are, and whether a hearing is needed.

Generally, appeals take about 13 months from start to finish. Some are resolved sooner. Others take longer.

At a glance

Most appeals move through these steps:

appeal process

Not every appeal follows the same path. The time it takes can vary at each step.

Starting your appeal

Your appeal starts when you file a Notice of Appeal.

We need a complete Notice of Appeal form before we can start processing your appeal.

We do not schedule a hearing as soon as you file your appeal.

Preparing the appeal for a hearing

This stage often takes the longest.

At this stage, we review the appeal and prepare it for a hearing.

  • We notify the responding party about the appeal.
  • We gather and share the records and other documents.
  • We identify the issues on appeal.
  • We decide whether the appeal is ready to move forward.

Many appeals stay at this stage for several months. This is a normal part of the process.

Scheduling the hearing

Not every appeal has a formal oral hearing.

Some appeals are resolved:

  • through mediation or alternative dispute resolution
  • in writing, without an oral hearing

If your appeal needs an oral hearing:

  • the hearing may be by videoconference, teleconference, in person, or in a hybrid format
  • the timing depends on the hearing format, the number of hearing days needed, and scheduling availability

Once your appeal is ready for a hearing, we generally schedule it within a few months.

After the hearing: the decision

After the hearing ends:

  • the Vice-Chair or Panel reviews the evidence and submissions
  • we prepare and send a written decision

We release most decisions within 120 days after the hearing ends.

What can affect timing?

How long your appeal takes can depend on:

  • the number of issues and how complex they are
  • whether we need more evidence or information
  • the hearing format
  • whether the hearing takes more than one day
  • changes during the appeal, such as new decisions, new information, or a change in representative

You may be able to help avoid delays by:

  • responding to requests for information as soon as you can
  • sending complete documents and information
  • telling us if your contact information or representative changes.

Our commitment to timely appeals

We monitor appeal timelines and work to move appeals forward as efficiently as possible. At the same time, we focus on fairness, careful decision-making, and a fair process for everyone involved.

If you have questions about your appeal, Contact Us.