How long must a self-insured administrator maintain the claim file?

The correct choice regarding how long a self-insured administrator must maintain the claim file is five years from the last provision of benefits. This timeframe is established to ensure that all necessary documentation related to the claim is available for review in case of any disputes or regulatory audits that may arise post-closure. Retaining the file for five years provides a sufficient period to address any potential inquiries related to benefits provided or to support the defense of claims should they arise.

The importance of this timeframe is underscored by the fact that workers' compensation claims can sometimes take years to resolve completely, and issues may still need to be addressed long after the initial benefits have been dispensed. By ensuring that all related records and documents are kept for this duration, self-insured administrators comply with legal standards and facilitate a clear understanding of the claim history if necessary.

The other options suggest shorter or indefinite durations, which do not align with the legal requirements set forth for maintaining such records. A duration of two years from the date of injury may not provide sufficient time for addressing all claim-related issues. A three-year period from the date of settlement also falls short, as benefits may continue beyond this timeframe or disputes may arise that justify longer retention. As for indefinite retention, while having access