New Jersey has some of the most comprehensive workers’ compensation laws in the United States. State law ensures that workers like you have protection regardless of who was at fault for an accident.
If you sustained injuries on the job in New Jersey, you may wonder whether you qualify for benefits. While eligibility depends on a few specific factors, most workers are covered under state law.
The basic rule
In New Jersey, the law requires nearly every employer to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This coverage applies to you if you fulfill both conditions:
- You work for an employer in New Jersey
- You suffer an injury or illness that arises within the scope of your employment (it happened while you were doing your job or because of your job)
This coverage extends to full-time, part-time, seasonal and temporary workers. Even if you started working just days before your injury, you still have coverage.
Noteworthy exclusions
Some distinctions may limit a worker’s eligibility to receive workers’ compensation. For example, workers in the independent contractor category do not qualify for workers’ compensation. This is because state law only covers official employees. However, many companies misclassify workers as contractors either by accident or to save costs. It may be wise to carefully assess your status.
Other types of workers may not have mandatory coverage, such as business owners (e.g., sole proprietors) or federal employees. If you sustain an injury, always check your coverage and classification.
Taking action
One of the most important aspects of New Jersey law is that workers’ compensation is a no-fault system. You do not need to prove an employer’s wrongdoing to receive benefits. Additionally, you may still get medical treatment and wage replacement if you caused your injury due to your own mistakes.
While the law is broad, there are a few instances where you may face a claim denial. After experiencing a work injury, the most important step is to notify your employer immediately. New Jersey allows up to 14 days to provide notice, with a strict final deadline of 90 days. If you face challenges while filing for workers’ compensation, you may wish to seek legal advice to explore your options.