Workers' Compensation in Missouri

Every state has a legal framework that incorporates workers' compensation in case of work-related injuries and incidents. If you work within Missouri, you should have a basic comprehension of Missouri workers’ compensation laws.



Employees that understand the basics of workers' compensation in Missouri can be better prepared to protect their rights and seek the appropriate benefits. Here is an overview of Missouri's workers' compensation policies.

How Does Missouri View Workers' Compensation?

Chapter 287: Workers' Compensation Law of the Missouri Revised Statutes is the legal framework that provides financial compensation to workers who become injured or ill due to their job duties in Missouri.

Missouri law requires most employers to have workers' compensation insurance to cover the medical treatment costs and lost wages for employees injured on the job. This insurance benefits workers who get injured or become ill because of their job duties.

Who Does Workers' Compensation in Missouri Cover?

In Missouri, most employers must have workers' compensation insurance. This requirement includes businesses with five or more employees, including part-time and temporary workers. Some types of workers, such as domestic workers, farm workers, and certain types of independent contractors, may not receive coverage from workers' compensation.

What Injuries and Illnesses Does Workers' Compensation in Missouri Cover?

Workers' compensation in Missouri covers injuries and illnesses that arise out of and in the course of employment. Thus, the injury or illness the worker claims must be directly related to the employee's job duties.

How Do Employees File a Workers' Compensation Claim in Missouri?

If an employee receives an injury on the job, they should notify their employer as soon as possible. The employer will then provide the employee with a claim form to fill out. The employee should also seek medical treatment and provide the medical provider with a copy of the claim form.

After, the employee should provide detailed information about the injury, including when and where it occurred, as well as any witnesses to the accident. The department will then review the claim and decide whether the employee is eligible for benefits.

What Benefits Does Workers' Compensation in Missouri Provide?

Workers' compensation in Missouri provides several types of benefits to injured workers. These benefits may include medical treatment, including hospital and doctor bills, prescription drugs, and other medical supplies. Workers' compensation may also provide benefits for lost wages, if the employee is unable to work due to their injury.

Also, employees who get temporarily or permanently disabled due to a workplace injury or illness receive these benefits. Family members of an employee who dies because of a workplace injury or illness receive death benefits.

How Is the Amount of Workers' Compensation Determined in Missouri?

The amount of workers' compensation depends on the severity of their injury. For example, if the injury results in temporary or permanent disability, the employee may be entitled to higher benefits. The Missouri Division of Workers' Compensation determines the amount of benefits based on various factors, including the employee's age, income, and type of injury.

How Long Does a Worker Have to File a Compensation Claim in Missouri?

In Missouri, employees have 30 days from the date of the injury to notify their employer of the accident. The employee must also file a claim with the Division of Workers' Compensation within two years of the date of the injury. If the employee fails to do so, they may be unable to receive any benefits.

An attorney is the best option if you want to secure more benefits and work through legal challenges in a workers' compensation claim. Contact us today at Spooner & Perkins P.C. Attorneys at Law if you work in Missouri.