Workers’ comp is the system in place for protecting individuals from workplace injuries. The system is designed to be as simple as possible, so no one who needs coverage is ever denied. However, there are always going to be unusual cases that may make applying for workers’ comp a bit more complicated. For instance, do you know where you need to apply if you work in a different state than the one you live in? This guide will answer this question.
Where To Apply
If you live and work in different states, it will be the state you work in that affects your case. There are commonly slight differences in how workers’ comp is handled between states, so it is important to apply in the right state.
No matter what state you live in or work in, beginning the workers’ comp process should always begin by reporting your injury to your employer. In fact, this is nearly all you have to do. It is primarily the responsibility of the employer to ensure an injured worker receives compensation. You will likely have to sign some paperwork, but your employer should guide you through the process and explain what you need to sign. Keep in mind that you should not worry about beginning the workers’ comp process while still injured. Your top priority should be to heal.
Differences Between States
It is important to understand how workers’ comp varies from one state to the next. Individual laws and regulations may be slightly different, but the biggest difference is in who provides workers’ comp. There are two types of workers’ comp:
- Private providers
- State agencies
Certain states handle workers’ comp differently, but all states have one of these two systems. If your state handles workers’ comp through private providers, then it works very similarly to insurance. Essentially, every employer is required by law to have a workers’ comp insurance policy, which covers all of that employer’s employees.
Some states have dedicated state agencies which provide the compensation directly. In these cases, there is very little your employer needs to do beside file the appropriate forms. If your employer does not take the correct steps, or is missing workers’ comp insurance, then you may have the option to hold your employer legally responsible. You are entitled to compensation for workplace injuries. If you find yourself in a situation where you are denied due to your employer’s actions or inaction, contact a workers’ comp attorney, like a workers compensation lawyer in Milwaukee, WI from Hickey & Turim, SC, immediately.