When you have been hurt at work, navigating your way through the New Jersey workers’ compensation system can be difficult and confusing. You are best served by hiring a lawyer to protect your rights. Nonetheless, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about New Jersey workers’ compensation benefits.
Q : What should my first steps be?
A: Under the law, you must notify your employer as soon as possible. This notice does not need to be in writing. More importantly, though, you must seek whatever medical treatment you need as soon as possible. If your injury demands it, you should immediately request to leave work to go to the hospital, the doctor or an urgent care facility. If the injury does not warrant emergency room care, notify your employer and ask them to arrange a doctor’s appointment.
Q: Are my benefits payments taxable?
A: No. You do not have to pay state or federal taxes on workers’ compensation benefits.
Q: What benefits will I receive?
A: Workers’ compensation pays the following benefits:
- A temporary weekly disability benefit to replace lost wages
- The costs of all “necessary and reasonable” medical expenses
- Permanent disability benefits if you are unable to return to work again
- A death benefit to survivors of an employee killed on the job
Q: How long must I be out of work before I can start to receive benefits?
A: The workers’ compensation law requires that you be unable to work for a minimum of seven days before you become eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. However, payments will be retroactive to your first day off work. The seven day period does not apply, though, to payment of medical expenses.
Contact Our Office
For a free initial consultation, contact our office online or call us at 973-993-8787. We have office locations in Morristown and Newton, but will visit you in your home or the hospital, if necessary.