Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Lawyers
At 612-INJURED, our workers’ compensation lawyers understand that any injury can disrupt your livelihood without warning. For many Minnesota residents, the confusion of pursuing compensation from their employers—the same companies that provide their income—can create tremendous stress and uncertainty.
That’s why we’re here. Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys take the uncertainty out of the process, offering a skilled, customized approach to help you pursue both the immediate and future benefits you’re entitled to under Minnesota law.
Are All Minnesota Companies Required to Carry Workers’ Compensation Insurance?
In Minnesota, all private businesses with at least one part-time employee must carry workers’ compensation insurance, although there are exceptions. The following employers and workers are not required to provide or have access to workers’ compensation coverage:
- State and federal government employees
- Certain interstate trucking and railroad company workers
- Domestic workers (e.g., gardeners or housekeepers) earning less than $1,000 in a three-month period from a single household
- Farming employees in certain situations
- Employees of nonprofit associations earning less than $1,000 per year
- The spouse, parent, or child of a sole proprietor, LLC manager, or executive officer of a closely held corporation
- Employees performing occasional or temporary work unrelated to the employer’s usual business activities
Additionally, individuals who meet Minnesota’s multi-factor test for independent contractors are not eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
Outside of these exceptions, all other employees in Minnesota are covered and have the right to file a workers’ compensation claim for job-related injuries or illnesses.
Do I Have to Report My Injury to My Employer Before Filing a Claim?
Yes. To protect your right to benefits, you must report your injury to your employer as soon as possible. In Minnesota, workplace injuries must be reported within 14 days of the date of injury.
If you are suffering from an occupational disease, your “date of injury” is the first day you knew—or reasonably should have known—that your condition was work-related.
In some cases, you may still be eligible for benefits if you report your injury within 30 days, provided your employer was not harmed by the delay.
Once the Injury Is Reported
Your employer must:
- Complete and file a First Report of Injury form with their workers’ compensation insurance provider
- Provide a copy of the filed report to you for your records
The insurance company must then file the report with the Minnesota Department of Labor & Industry within 10 days. They have 14 days to investigate the claim and decide whether to accept or deny it.
Can I Seek Medical Treatment While Waiting for a Decision?
Yes. If your workplace injury requires emergency medical care, seek treatment immediately—at any medical facility—and inform the provider that your injuries are work-related.
For non-emergency treatment, you may choose your own healthcare provider unless your employer has a certified managed care plan. If such a plan exists, your employer must notify you in writing. In that case, you must select a doctor within the network unless no providers are located within 30–50 miles of your home or workplace.
Are You Eligible to Pursue Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Minnesota?
If you’re struggling to understand Minnesota’s workers’ compensation laws or have been wrongfully denied benefits, our experienced attorneys can help. Contact our team at 612-INJURED today by calling or texting (612) 465-8733 for a free consultation. We’ll provide straightforward answers and the legal guidance you need to secure the benefits you deserve for your workplace injuries.