If you’re injured at your job, workers’ compensation benefits help you recover and provide income. In Missouri, the program is administered through a division of Department of Labor and Industrial Relations. These questions and answers below may help you obtain the valuable benefits available.

Answers to Basic Workers’ Compensation Questions

Am I covered?

Missouri requires employers with at least five employees to provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage, either through purchasing a policy or being self-insured. Construction companies must provide coverage if they have at least one employee. Federal employees are covered under a separate system. There are exemptions for certain situations, but many employers carry the insurance even when it’s not required to err on the side of caution. 

What does the coverage include?

Your employer pays for your medical care and treatment after an injury, including therapy and rehabilitation. Benefits include compensation for missed wages while out of work due to the injury or condition. You may be entitled to payments for permanent partial or total disability. An employer or insurance company pays a death benefit for funeral or burial expenses up to $5,000 when an injured worker passes away. Survivor benefits may also apply. 

How do I receive benefits? 

As soon as possible, tell your supervisor or employer about the accident and request medical attention. You must give notice of your injury within 30 days of the accident, or your right to receive benefits can be denied. An injury must arise out of and in the course of employment. Once you give notice, you have two years from the accident date to file a claim for benefits.

When do I receive payments for missed work?

There is a three-day waiting period before you receive payment for lost time. You receive compensation for the three days if you miss more than 14 workdays. If you are denied benefits, you should notify the Workers’ Compensation Division and consult an attorney for help.  

Workers’ compensation benefits help injured employees and their families stay afloat financially during difficult times. Skilled attorneys at Henry & Williams P.C., a respected law firm in West Plains, MO, are dedicated to ensuring their clients receive all the benefits the law allows. With more than 75 years of combined legal experience, these compassionate lawyers offer strong representation and peace of mind so you can focus on getting well. Visit their website to read what clients say about them and call (417) 256-8133 to schedule a free consultation.