Workers’ Compensation Laws in New Hampshire
If you’re injured while working in New Hampshire, state law provides a system of workers’ compensation to help you recover lost income and medical expenses. Whether you slipped on a restaurant floor in Concord or suffered a back injury on a construction site in Manchester, knowing your legal protections can make a major difference in your recovery process.
Who’s Required to Carry Workers’ Comp?
In New Hampshire, almost all employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, even if they only employ one person. This includes:
- Full-time workers
- Part-time and seasonal employees
- Family members working for a business
The only major exceptions include:
- Sole proprietors or partners with no employees
- Limited Liability Company (LLC) members (unless they elect coverage)
- Certain casual laborers
If your employer doesn’t carry coverage, you may be eligible for benefits through the State of New Hampshire’s Special Fund.
What Types of Injuries Are Covered?
Covered injuries and illnesses include anything that happens in the course of employment, such as:
- Accidents (falls, burns, crush injuries)
- Repetitive stress injuries (e.g., tendinitis, carpal tunnel)
- Occupational illnesses (e.g., chemical exposure, respiratory diseases)
- Mental injuries caused by work-related trauma (with strict medical documentation)
You must show that the injury occurred while performing job duties, or as a result of work conditions.
Benefits Available
If your claim is approved, New Hampshire law provides several benefits:
- Medical Care: 100% of necessary medical expenses, including doctor visits, surgery, prescriptions, and rehabilitation
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD): If you’re completely unable to work for more than 3 days, you may receive 60% of your average weekly wage
- Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): For cases where you return to work with reduced hours or responsibilities
- Permanent Impairment Award: A lump-sum payment for permanent loss of function to specific body parts
- Death Benefits: Financial support for dependents of workers who die as a result of workplace injuries, plus burial expenses up to a certain limit
All wage-based benefits are subject to minimum and maximum caps set by the New Hampshire Department of Labor.
Deadlines and Reporting Requirements
New Hampshire has strict timelines for workers’ compensation cases:
- Report the injury to your employer immediately—ideally on the same day
- Your employer then has 5 days to file a First Report of Injury with their insurance carrier
- If your claim is denied, you have 18 months to request a hearing or mediation with the Department of Labor
Delays in reporting or paperwork can affect your ability to receive benefits.
Medical Treatment Rules
Initially, you have the right to choose your own medical provider, unless your employer participates in a Managed Care Program (MCP). In that case, your choices are limited to providers within that network. You can request a change of physician, but it’s best to notify the insurance carrier beforehand.
Common Disputes
Common claim disputes in New Hampshire include:
- Denials based on lack of medical evidence
- Disagreements over the severity of your injury
- Delays in wage replacement benefits
- Conflicts regarding return-to-work obligations
The New Hampshire Department of Labor offers mediation and hearings to resolve disagreements. You can also file a formal appeal if you’re not satisfied with a decision.
Legal Help for Workers in New Hampshire
Workers often face challenges navigating the claims process, especially if an injury affects their long-term health or ability to work. An experienced New Hampshire workers’ compensation attorney can:
- Help prove your injury is work-related
- Fight claim denials
- Negotiate settlements
- Represent you during hearings
Many lawyers offer free consultations and charge only if you win your case.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been injured on the job, don’t delay—New Hampshire’s workers’ compensation system is here to help. Take action early, report your injury, follow through on medical care, and get support if you face pushback. This is your right as a worker—and help is available if you need it.