By completing the full CPWC program, you’ll gain the knowledge and practical skills to:
Become a Certified Workers’ Compensation Claims Professional
Master the core competencies, legal frameworks, and practical skills needed to succeed as a claims practitioner in California workers’ comp.
Comprehensive Training
Covers 24 modules spanning medical, legal, and claims management topics.
Earn IEA's CPWC Certification
Stand out with an industry-recognized credential.
For New and Experienced Professionals
Ideal for adjusters, examiners, and anyone handling CA work comp claims.
"Your training has provided me with the essential vocabulary and concepts that help me understand the “why” behind the claims work we do each day. Thanks for creating such an accessible entry point into the complex world of Workers’ Compensation!"
Jerold Johnson, CPWC
Workers’ Comp Claims Adjuster, Sedgwick
What You’ll Learn
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Understand California’s workers’ compensation system, laws, and claims process from start to finish
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Determine compensability, benefits, and employer responsibilities with confidence
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Apply medical, legal, and administrative procedures in real-world claims scenarios
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Navigate utilization review, medical billing, WCAB procedures, and dispute resolution
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Identify and manage risks, special claim types, and potential fraud
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Advance your career with recognized, job-relevant training
Sullivan on Comp
The Claims Practitioner in Workers’ Compensation (CPWC) program is powered by Sullivan on Comp (SOC) and SOC Essentials—the most trusted resources in California workers’ compensation.
These expert materials deliver:
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In-depth legal analysis
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Practical, real-world claims guidance
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Current updates on laws, regulations, and case law
With SOC integrated into this course, you’ll gain the legal insight and practical tools needed to handle California workers’ compensation claims with skill and confidence.
Claims Practitioner in Workers' Compensation (CPWC)
Get certified to launch or advance your career in California workers’ compensation claims.
- Hands-on training for real claims work
- Covers all critical WC topics, start to finish
- Respected credential trusted by employers
$2,499
Payment plans available.
Claims Practitioner in Workers' Compensation (CPWC)
Master the core competencies, legal frameworks, and practical skills needed to succeed as a claims practitioner in California workers’ comp.
- Hands-on training for real claims work
- Covers all critical WC topics, start to finish
- Respected credential trusted by employers
"Your training has provided me with the essential vocabulary and concepts that help me understand the “why” behind the claims work we do each day. Thanks for creating such an accessible entry point into the complex world of Workers’ Compensation!"
Jerold Johnson, CPWC
Workers’ Comp Claims Adjuster, Sedgwick
The New Standard in California Work Comp Training
Developed by experts, designed for you.
The Claims Practitioner in Workers’ Compensation (CPWC) is California’s premier workers’ compensation training program, created by industry experts to meet the evolving needs of claims professionals. Whether you’re an insurance adjuster, claims examiner, or risk management professional, CPWC delivers essential, real-world knowledge to navigate California workers’ comp laws with confidence and compliance. Backed by the Insurance Education Association (IEA), this certification enhances your credibility, strengthens your claims handling skills, and supports career advancement. Enroll in CPWC today and become the expert your organization relies on.
Certification Options
Designed to meet California’s training requirements.
Medical Bill Review
$1,079
- 10 Topics
- Satisfies 30-Hour Requirement
- Industry Recognized Certification
Medical Only Adjuster
$1,899
- 18 Topics
- Satisfies 50-Hour Requirement
- Industry Recognized Certification
Claims Adjuster
$2,499
- 24 Topics
- Satisfies 120-Hour Requirement
- Industry Recognized Certification
Learn about California adjuster roles
Learn about California's training requirements
Same Course, Different Options
Follow the path of a claim with these bundled tracks.
Foundations of Work Comp
$439
- Track 1
- Modules 1-4
- Complete in 23 hours
Learn the basics of California workers’ compensation—system origins, coverage rules, claim setup, and exclusive remedy—to build a solid base as an adjuster.
Claim Compensability
$229
- Track 2
- Modules 5-6
- Complete in 12 hours
Master how claims are evaluated in California workers comp. This track covers AOE/COE, proximate cause, and LC 3600 defenses to help you assess eligibility with confidence.
Medical Benefits & Billing
$539
- Track 3
- Modules 7-11
- Complete in 21 hours
Understand key elements of workers’ comp medical care—terminology, guidelines, UR, billing rules, and dispute resolution—to manage treatment and costs effectively.
Advanced Issues in Claims
$439
- Track 4
- Modules 12-15
- Complete in 15 hours
Tackle complex claims with confidence. Learn lien resolution, ethics, audit processes, and fraud detection to manage high-risk files and avoid compliance missteps.
Legal/Disability Resolution
$539
- Track 5
- Modules 16-20
- Complete in 24 hours
Build legal and analytical skills for resolving complex claims. Topics include WCAB authority, AWW calculations, TD, PD ratings, and apportionment.
Closure and Resolution
$439
- Track 6
- Modules 21-24
- Complete in 25 hours
Learn to close claims effectively through discovery, negotiation, and resolution. Topics include RTW, death benefits, subrogation, and settlements.
One Module at a Time ($119 each)
Choose individual topics to build focused skills.
CPWC 01
WC Origins & Overview
Explore the historical foundations and evolution of California’s workers’ compensation system. Understand the purpose, key principles, and legal framework that shape claims handling today.
- Core Principles
- Civil Claims Impact
- System Comparison Overview
- Complete in 4 hours
CPWC 02
Coverage & Claims Admin Options
Learn the fundamentals of workers' compensation coverage, financing, and policy structures. Discover how claims are administered, including employer responsibilities and third-party administrators.
- Insurance and WC Basics
- Employer Coverage Options
- Claims Administration Overview
- Complete in 4 hours
CPWC 03
Claim Initiation & Set Up
Master the first steps of a workers’ compensation claim. Gain hands-on knowledge in gathering critical documentation, establishing compensability, and setting up claims for success.
- Claim Initiation Steps
- Pre-Injury Notice Requirements
- Initial Investigation Process
- Complete in 6 hours
CPWC 04
WC Injuries & Exclusive Remedy
Delve into the legal doctrine of exclusive remedy and its exceptions. Explore different types of workplace injuries and alternative liability theories that may impact claims.
- Core Principles
- Civil Claims Impact
- System Comparison Overview
- Complete in 8 hours
CPWC 05
Claim Compensability Part 1
Understand the key elements that determine if an injury is compensable under California law. Learn about AOE/COE (Arising Out of and In the Course of Employment) and legal causation.
- Verify Injury Elements
- Establish Employment Relationship
- Apply Jurisdiction Rules
- Complete in 5 hours
CPWC 06
Claim Compensability Part 2
Explore statutory defenses and exceptions to compensability. Analyze legal exclusions such as intoxication, self-inflicted injuries, horseplay, and post-termination claims.
- Assess AOE/COE Conditions
- Apply LC 3600 Exclusions
- Determine Compensability Defenses
- Complete in 7 hours
CPWC 07
Overview of WC Benefits
Get a complete breakdown of the benefits available to injured workers, including medical treatment, temporary and permanent disability, death benefits, and supplemental job displacement.
- Understand WC Benefit Structure
- Distinguish Disability Benefit Types
- Identify Claim Consequences
- Complete in 2 hours
CPWC 08
Medical Terminology & Examinations
Navigate complex medical terminology used in workers' compensation. Learn about common diagnostic procedures, impairment assessments, and how medical evidence influences claims.
- Medical Treatment Responsibilities Overview
- Authorized Provider Roles Defined
- Scope of Care Explained
- Complete in 3 hours
CPWC 09
Medical Treatment Issues & UR
Understand the processes for authorizing and disputing medical treatment. Learn about the Medical Treatment Utilization Schedule (MTUS), utilization review (UR), and independent medical review (IMR).
- Understand Utilization Review Process
- Apply Medical Necessity Criteria
- Navigate UR Timelines
- Complete in 6 hours
CPWC 10
Medical Disputes & Process
Explore the role of Qualified Medical Evaluators (QMEs) and Agreed Medical Evaluators (AMEs). Gain expertise in resolving medical-legal disputes through proper reporting and procedural compliance.
- Resolve Medical Disputes
- Understand ML Evaluation Process
- Apply QME/AME Guidelines
- Complete in 4 hours
CPWC 11
Fee Schedules & Billing Codes
Master California’s workers’ compensation fee schedules, medical billing codes, and reimbursement guidelines. Learn how to analyze bills and avoid overpayment pitfalls.
- Interpret Medical Fee Schedules
- Process Treatment Bill Payments
- Navigate Billing Disputes
- Complete in 5 hours
CPWC 12
Defense & Resolution of Liens
Gain practical skills in managing liens, including medical provider liens, interpreter fees, and copy service disputes. Learn negotiation strategies to minimize claim costs.
- Understand Medical-Legal Liens
- Lien Claimant Rights Overview
- Dispute Resolution Procedures
- Complete in 5 hours
CPWC 13
Ethics and Claims Administration Issues
Understand ethical obligations in claims handling. Learn about conflicts of interest, confidentiality, and best practices for maintaining integrity in workers' compensation administration.
- Understand Adjuster Responsibilities
- Apply Claims Handling Regulations
- Manage Penalties and Notices
- Complete in 4 hours
CPWC 14
DWC Organization & Claim Audits
Prepare for claim audits by mastering the regulatory framework enforced by the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC). Learn how to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
- Understand DWC Org Structure
- Navigate Audit Unit Process
- Comply with Good Faith
- Complete in 4 hours
CPWC 15
Workers' Compensation Fraud
Detect and prevent fraud at every level of a workers’ compensation claim. Learn investigative techniques for employer, employee, and provider fraud cases.
- Identify Workers’ Comp Fraud
- Understand Fraud Investigation Process
- Apply Legal Penalties
- Complete in 2 hours
CPWC 16
WCAB Jurisdiction & Authority
Understand the role and jurisdiction of the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB). Learn about the dispute resolution process, trial procedures, and appeals.
- Define WCAB Jurisdiction
- Determine State Law Applicability
- Explore Concurrent Legal Authority
- Complete in 6 hours
CPWC 17
Earning Capacity
Calculate workers’ compensation benefits accurately by mastering average weekly wage (AWW) and earning capacity formulas. Understand wage-loss replacement and statutory adjustments.
- Calculate Average Weekly Wages
- Assess Earning Capacity Impact
- Apply Wage Rules Accurately
- Complete in 5 hours
CPWC 18
Temporary Disability
Learn the rules governing temporary disability (TD) benefits. Understand payment structures, duration limits, wage replacement calculations, and exceptions.
- Define Temporary Disability Criteria
- Calculate TD Benefit Payments
- Apply Time Limit Rules
- Complete in 5 hours
CPWC 19
Permanent Disability
Understand the process of evaluating and awarding permanent disability (PD) benefits. Learn about impairment ratings, physician assessments, and determining disability percentages.
- Understand Permanent Disability Basics
- Apply PD Rating Criteria
- Use Disability Schedules
- Complete in 7 hours
CPWC 20
PD Apportionment
Understand how PD ratings are calculated using the AMA Guides and California’s Permanent Disability Rating Schedule (PDRS). Explore apportionment and its impact on benefits.
- Rate Permanent Disability Accurately
- Apply Apportionment Guidelines
- Utilize AMA Guides
- Complete in 3 hours
CPWC 21
Return to Work
Explore strategies for returning injured workers to modified or alternative positions. Understand the Supplemental Job Displacement Benefit (SJDB) and the Return-to-Work Fund.
- Challenge Disability Rating Systems
- Understand Vocational Impact
- Review RTW Benefits
- Complete in 4 hours
CPWC 22
Death and Dependency Benefits
Learn the criteria for awarding death benefits to dependents of deceased employees. Understand eligibility, benefit calculations, and the legal process for resolving disputes.
- Define Death Benefit Criteria
- Identify Dependent Eligibility
- Calculate Benefit Entitlements
- Complete in 4 hours
CPWC 23
Discovery & Claim Evaluation
Master discovery procedures in workers’ compensation claims. Learn about depositions, subpoenas, witness testimony, and evidence collection for claim resolution.
- Rate Permanent Disability Accurately
- Apply Apportionment Guidelines
- Utilize AMA Guides
- Complete in 7 hours
CPWC 24
Claim Resolution, Subrogation/Contribution
Explore settlement strategies, subrogation rights, and contribution claims. Learn how to close claims efficiently while maximizing cost recovery for employers and insurers.
- Recognize Claim Filing Pitfalls
- Identify Common Errors
- Ensure Compliance Standards
- Complete in 12 hours
Explore Adjuster Tracks
Six focused learning tracks from the CPWC—take one or build toward full certification.
Foundations of Work Comp
Track 1
Learn the basics of California workers’ compensation—system origins, coverage rules, claim setup, and exclusive remedy—to build a solid base as an adjuster.
$439
Claim Compensability Essentials
Track 2
Master how claims are evaluated in California workers’ comp. This track covers AOE/COE, proximate cause, and Labor Code 3600 defenses to help you assess eligibility with confidence.
$229
Medical Benefits & Billing in WC
Track 3
Understand key elements of workers’ comp medical care—terminology, guidelines, UR, billing rules, and dispute resolution—to manage treatment and costs effectively.
$539
Advanced Issues in WC Claims
Track 4
Tackle complex claims with confidence. Learn lien resolution, ethics, audit processes, and fraud detection to manage high-risk files and avoid compliance missteps.
$439
Legal & Disability Resolution
Track 5
Build legal and analytical skills for resolving complex claims. Topics include WCAB authority, AWW calculations, TD, PD ratings, and apportionment.
$539
Claim Closure and Resolution
Track 6
Learn to close claims effectively through discovery, negotiation, and resolution. Topics include RTW, death benefits, subrogation, and settlements.
$439
Earn Your Medical Only or Medical Bill Review Certification
Customized learning paths to meet California’s requirements.
Complete California’s required 50-hours of training for medical-only adjusters with focused instruction on claims handling, treatment authorization, and compliance—earn your CPWC-MO certification and manage claims with confidence!
Meet California’s 30-hour training requirement for medical bill reviewers with specialized instruction in billing regulations, fee schedules, and utilization review—earn your CPWC-MBR certification and ensure accurate, compliant payments!
Customize Your Learning with Individual Modules
Prefer to go at your own pace? All 24 CPWC modules are available à la carte—build knowledge one topic at a time or fill specific skill gaps.
WC Origins & Overview
Explore the historical foundations and evolution of California’s workers’ compensation system. Understand the purpose, key principles, and legal framework that shape claims handling today.
$119
Coverage & Claims Admin Options
Learn the fundamentals of workers' compensation coverage, financing, and policy structures. Discover how claims are administered, including employer responsibilities and third-party administrators.
$119
Claim Initiation & Set Up
Master the first steps of a workers’ compensation claim. Gain hands-on knowledge in gathering critical documentation, establishing compensability, and setting up claims for success.
$119
WC Injuries & Exclusive Remedy
Delve into the legal doctrine of exclusive remedy and its exceptions. Explore different types of workplace injuries and alternative liability theories that may impact claims.
$119
Claim Compensability Part 1
Understand the key elements that determine if an injury is compensable under California law. Learn about AOE/COE (Arising Out of and In the Course of Employment) and legal causation.
$119
Claim Compensability Part 2
Explore statutory defenses and exceptions to compensability. Analyze legal exclusions such as intoxication, self-inflicted injuries, horseplay, and post-termination claims.
$119
Overview of WC Benefits
Get a complete breakdown of the benefits available to injured workers, including medical treatment, temporary and permanent disability, death benefits, and supplemental job displacement.
$119
Medical Terminology & Examinations
Navigate complex medical terminology used in workers' compensation. Learn about common diagnostic procedures, impairment assessments, and how medical evidence influences claims.
$119
Medical Treatment Issues & UR
Understand the processes for authorizing and disputing medical treatment. Learn about the Medical Treatment Utilization Schedule (MTUS), utilization review (UR), and independent medical review (IMR).
$119
Medical Disputes & Process
Explore the role of Qualified Medical Evaluators (QMEs) and Agreed Medical Evaluators (AMEs). Gain expertise in resolving medical-legal disputes through proper reporting and procedural compliance.
$119
Fee Schedules & Billing Codes
Master California’s workers’ compensation fee schedules, medical billing codes, and reimbursement guidelines. Learn how to analyze bills and avoid overpayment pitfalls.
$119
Defense & Resolution of Liens
Gain practical skills in managing liens, including medical provider liens, interpreter fees, and copy service disputes. Learn negotiation strategies to minimize claim costs.
$119
Ethics and Claims Administration Issues
Understand ethical obligations in claims handling. Learn about conflicts of interest, confidentiality, and best practices for maintaining integrity in workers' compensation administration.
$119
DWC Organization & Claim Audits
Prepare for claim audits by mastering the regulatory framework enforced by the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC). Learn how to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
$119
Workers' Compensation Fraud
Detect and prevent fraud at every level of a workers’ compensation claim. Learn investigative techniques for employer, employee, and provider fraud cases.
$119
WCAB Jurisdiction & Authority
Understand the role and jurisdiction of the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB). Learn about the dispute resolution process, trial procedures, and appeals.
$119
Earning Capacity
Calculate workers’ compensation benefits accurately by mastering average weekly wage (AWW) and earning capacity formulas. Understand wage-loss replacement and statutory adjustments.
$119
Temporary Disability
Learn the rules governing temporary disability (TD) benefits. Understand payment structures, duration limits, wage replacement calculations, and exceptions.
$119
Permanent Disability
Master the process of evaluating and awarding permanent disability (PD) benefits. Learn about impairment ratings, physician assessments, and determining disability percentages.
$119
PD Apportionment
Understand how PD ratings are calculated using the AMA Guides and California’s Permanent Disability Rating Schedule (PDRS). Explore apportionment and its impact on benefits.
$119
Return to Work
Explore strategies for returning injured workers to modified or alternative positions. Understand the Supplemental Job Displacement Benefit (SJDB) and the Return-to-Work Fund.
$119
Death and Dependency Benefits
Learn the criteria for awarding death benefits to dependents of deceased employees. Understand eligibility, benefit calculations, and the legal process for resolving disputes.
$119
Discovery & Claim Evaluation
Master discovery procedures in workers’ compensation claims. Learn about depositions, subpoenas, witness testimony, and evidence collection for claim resolution.
$119
Claim Resolution Subrogation/Contribution
Explore settlement strategies, subrogation rights, and contribution claims. Learn how to close claims efficiently while maximizing cost recovery for employers and insurers.
$119
Why Choose IEA?
Industry-Specific Expertise: Our training programs are tailored to the unique demands of the insurance industry in California, ensuring you receive practical and relevant knowledge.
Flexible Learning: Learn at your own pace with our online courses. Whether you’re starting your career or advancing, we’ve got you covered.
Proven Success: Join the ranks of successful professionals who have transformed their careers with IEA’s training programs.
Certifications That Matter: Earn valuable certifications that open doors to higher-paying jobs and exciting career opportunities in California.
Ready to Transform Your Career?
Don’t wait any longer – take the first step towards a brighter future today! Choose your persona and let us guide you on your journey to success.Â
Unlock your potential, embrace the future, and embrace a successful career in the insurance industry with IEA. Enroll today and pave your path to professional growth and financial security!
Connect with our experienced counselor to determine the best class for your goals
Fill out the form to get in touch
Blogs
Medical Bill Payment Deadlines in Workers’ Compensation: Why Timing Matters
The Hidden Risk Factor Costing Your Business: Why Managing Employee Absences Strategically Matters More Than Ever
When Compliance Isn’t Enough: Why Integrated Disability & Absence Management is the Future
From Legacy to Leadership: Honoring the WCCA™ and Looking Ahead
When FMLA, ADA, and Productivity Collide – What’s the Solution?
Employer Credit in Third Party Workers’ Compensation Settlements
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should take the CPWC
The CPWC is designed to provide aspiring California workers’ compensation adjusters with the day-to-day skills needed for on-the-job adjusting AND to provide the statutorily required topics and training hours for State of California compliance.
Can I take CPWC if I am not planning to be an adjuster
Although CPWC was developed for aspiring adjusters, the content is applicable and relevant for anyone who needs to know and understand California workers’ compensation. Individual lessons can be picked a-la-carte for this purpose depending on what particular area you’d like to review or learn about.
How long will it take to complete the certification
The indemnity designation has 24 lessons. Each lesson takes about five hours. You can move through the lessons as quickly as you like but you must complete all 24 within 365 days from starting.
Do I need to buy materials?
CPWC reading assignments are hosted on Sullivan on Comp and are an integral and required component of the program. Use coupon code IEAstudent to receive $65 off an annual subscription, or the first month of a monthly subscription at no cost.
Other required materials can be downloaded free:
California Labor Code
California Code of Regulations
California Insurance Code
How long is each class available?
You have two chances to pass each class exam, We really want you to learn the material and succeed so if you don’t pass, let us know at support@ieatraining.org and we help you reach your goals.
What Happens if I don't pass a lesson?
We want you to really learn the material and we want to succeed. Re-takes on quizzes can be taken on request.
I completed the course…now what?
Congratulations! You have earned your Claims Practitioner in Workers Compensation (CPWC) Certification. We will send you the details about the annual credit submission requirement.
Important:
The State of California requires that you complete continuing education hours every 2 years (this is separate to your IEA requirement although you can use the same hours for both). To learn more about the number of hours for your particular adjuster certification, click here.
Does IEA have any payment plans?
Yes! IEA can help you optimize your budget. We have payment plan options at checkout. Simply choose the u0022Shop Payu0022 option during enrollment and then choose the plan that’s best for you.
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