Notice in writing within 30 days
New York law generally requires you to give your employer written notice of a work injury within 30 days of the accident. The notice should identify that you were injured, roughly when and where, and that it happened at work. Written notice is the safe form, because it leaves a record.
For a gradual or occupational condition, the clock generally runs from when you knew, or should have known, that the condition was related to your job rather than from a single accident date.
Why the deadline matters
Late notice is one of the carrier’s standard denial grounds. When notice is missing or late, the carrier can argue it was prejudiced – that the delay cost it the chance to investigate or direct early care.
The Board does recognize valid excuses in some situations, and lack of prejudice can matter, but relying on an exception is far riskier than simply giving notice on time.
How to give notice the right way
Put it in writing – an email or a signed note to a supervisor or HR works – and keep a dated copy for yourself. State plainly that you were hurt at work, with the basics of when and how.
Giving notice is not the same as filing your claim; the formal claim (Form C-3) goes to the Board and has its own, longer deadline. But notice to the employer is the early step that keeps the door open.