If you were injured while working in Minnesota, the state’s workers’ compensation system offers support to help cover your medical costs and lost wages. Whether the injury occurred in a single moment or developed over time, benefits are available to most employees regardless of fault.

Who Is Covered?

Minnesota law requires nearly all employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. This includes:

• Full-time, part-time, and seasonal workers
• Minors
• Undocumented workers
• Some agricultural workers, depending on the employer’s size and structure

Independent contractors may not be covered unless they are incorrectly classified. Minnesota uses a detailed multi-factor test to determine whether a worker is truly independent.

Employer Insurance Requirements

All employers must purchase workers’ compensation insurance, be approved as self-insured, or become part of a group self-insurance pool. There are strict penalties for employers who fail to meet these requirements, including fines and potential lawsuits.

Available Benefits

Employees injured on the job in Minnesota may receive:

• Medical Benefits: Payment for all reasonable and necessary treatment related to the work injury, including surgeries, therapy, and medications.
• Temporary Total Disability (TTD): Wage loss benefits if you are completely unable to work for a temporary period. Generally, you may receive up to two-thirds of your average weekly wage.
• Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): If you return to work at reduced hours or wages, you may receive partial wage-loss benefits.
• Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): Compensation for lasting impairments based on a percentage rating determined by a medical provider.
• Permanent Total Disability (PTD): Long-term benefits for those who are permanently unable to return to work.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: Services to help injured workers find new jobs or train for different careers if they cannot return to their previous positions.
• Death Benefits: If a worker dies due to a job-related injury, their dependents may receive compensation and funeral expenses.

Deadlines for Reporting and Filing

Timing is critical in Minnesota workers’ comp cases:

• Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible, but no later than 14 days after the injury. In some cases, you may still be eligible if you report within 30 days.
• File a claim with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry if benefits are denied or disputed.

Prompt action helps ensure you don’t miss out on the support you need.

Choosing a Medical Provider

Initially, the employer may recommend a healthcare provider. However, you have the right to choose your own doctor, as long as you inform your employer. If a managed care plan is in place, your choices may be limited to that network.

Common Work Injuries in Minnesota

The state’s workers’ compensation laws cover a wide variety of workplace injuries and illnesses, including:

• Back and neck injuries from lifting
• Slip and fall accidents
• Machinery accidents
• Repetitive stress injuries
• Occupational illnesses caused by exposure to chemicals or loud noises

Psychological conditions may also be covered, especially in cases involving workplace trauma.

Disputes and Appeals

If your claim is denied or you believe you are receiving too little, you can:

1. Attempt informal dispute resolution through the Department of Labor and Industry
2. File a formal claim petition
3. Attend a hearing before a compensation judge if needed

Legal support is often helpful during these steps.

Legal Help for Injured Workers

You may want to consult a Minnesota workers’ compensation attorney if:

• Your claim is denied
• You disagree with your benefit amount
• Your employer pressures you to return too soon
• You’re offered a lump-sum settlement you’re unsure about

Take Action to Protect Your Rights

Minnesota workers’ compensation laws are designed to protect you, but navigating the process isn’t always easy. Report your injury promptly, keep good records, and don’t hesitate to seek legal help to make sure your rights are upheld.