What Workers' Comp Covers

• Medical Expenses: Doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and ongoing care related to the injury or illness.

• Lost Wages: Partial wage replacement during recovery. Typically, workers receive a percentage of their average weekly wage.

• Disability Benefits:

• Temporary Total Disability (TTD): For workers unable to work for a limited time.

• Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): For lasting impairments that reduce work capacity.

• Permanent Total Disability (PTD): For injuries that prevent any future employment.

• Rehabilitation Services: Occupational therapy, job retraining, and support for returning to work.

• Death Benefits: Funeral expenses and financial support for dependents if a worker dies due to a job-related incident.

​

Who Needs It?

• Most employers are legally required to carry workers’ comp, even if they have just one employee. Requirements vary by state.

• Independent contractors and freelancers are typically not covered unless voluntarily enrolled.

• High-risk industries like construction, manufacturing, and transportation often face higher premium costs due to increased injury rates.

​

How It Works

• Injury Occurs: The employee reports the incident to the employer

• Claim Filed: The employer submits a claim to their workers’ comp insurer.

• Medical Evaluation: The employee receives treatment and documentation.

• Benefits Paid: If approved, the insurer pays for medical care and wage replacement.

• Return to Work: Rehabilitation may be provided to help the employee resume duties.

​

 Employer Benefits

• Legal Protection: Avoids costly lawsuits by providing a structured claims process.

• Risk Management: Encourages safer workplaces and reduces liability.

• Compliance: Meets state legal requirements and avoids penalties.

 

Common Challenges

• Denied Claims: May occur due to late reporting, lack of documentation, or disputes over cause.

• Fraud Risk: Employers must monitor for exaggerated or false claims.

• State Variability: Coverage rules, benefit limits, and exemptions differ by state

​