What qualifies as a Workers’ Compensation claim?
The Minnesota Workers’ Compensation claim process is complex and navigating it successfully can be confusing. If you suffered an injury, developed an illness, or your pre-existing condition was made worse because of your job, the Workers’ Compensation lawyers at Fields Law Firm can review your case for free and determine whether you qualify to file a claim for your particular situation.
It costs nothing to get answers to your questions –
Under Minnesota law, most employers must either carry Workers’ Compensation insurance or become self-insured. However, qualifying to receive benefits and actually getting them can be two different things. You may qualify to file a Workers’ Compensation claim for benefits if:
- You were injured because of your job.
- You developed an illness because of your job.
- A pre-existing condition was aggravated by your job duties.
- An illness or injury was accelerated by your job duties.
Our Minnesota Workers’ Compensation attorneys are proud to be a resource for injured workers, and you can count on us to be there when you need us most.
Who qualifies for Workers’ Compensation benefits?
Under Minnesota state law, anyone who is hired by and works for another person, including hourly workers, salary workers or workers without pay, is considered an employee and is therefore covered by Workers’ Compensation. This can include:
- Workers under age 18 (Minors)
- Union workers
- Healthcare workers
- Volunteer firefighters
- Law enforcement
- Teachers and Instructors
- Mine workers
- Workers who are not citizens
What types of workers are NOT covered by Minnesota Workers’ Compensation?
Generally, independent contractors and freelancers are not eligible to receive Workers’ Compensation benefits, but there may be exceptions if an employee is improperly classified. Federal employees and employees who work in certain industries – such as postal workers and railroad workers – can make claims under federal Workers’ Compensation programs.
There are many exceptions to the types of businesses that must carry Workers’ Compensation and the types of employees who are eligible for benefits. If you have a question about whether or not you can make a claim for your work-related injury, call our Minnesota Workers’ Compensation attorneys.
