If you’re worried about taking time off work due to a workplace accident or injury, you are not alone. A record-high number of American workers had a leave of absence for this reason last year, and there is every possibility that records will be smashed again in 2023.

If an injury makes you unable to work, you need to file a workers’ compensation claim as quickly as possible.

This will help you cover your lost wages for time off work and help you to maintain sound financial footing. But when does workers’ comp start paying? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know.

Do I Have to Wait for Workers’ Comp Coverage?

Much like liability insurance, workers’ comp is one of those policies that are essential for any business to take out. All states require employers to take out a workers’ comp policy to cover their workers in the event of injury at work.

However, employees are only entitled to payouts after missing a certain number of days.

This means that very short periods of absence are often not enough for workers’ comp benefits to kick in.

However, it’s crucial to note that waiting periods vary from state-to-state, as there is no Federal minimum covering this type of insurance.

When Does Workers’ Comp Start Paying?

As mentioned, waiting periods vary. Across many states, workers’ comp will begin paying the injured employee after seven days. This is the most common minimum period and covers states such as Florida, Arizona, and Michigan.

The next most common wait period is three days, which is the law in California, Alabama, and Hawaii, among others. Meanwhile, some states, such as Idaho and Nevada, offer a five-day wait period.

On top of this, some states will count those days as consecutive calendar days, while others only count workdays. Always check what your state government has to say before filing your claim.

What About Medical Bills?

If you are injured at work, you are entitled to medical benefits through workers’ comp. This means that your policy will cover medical bills sustained from the injury.

Again, the implementation of this varies from state to state. Some states allow you to receive medical payments before the waiting period is up. Others will not begin medical bill payouts until after the waiting period.

How Much Can I Get?

Employees are generally entitled to two-thirds of their pre-tax salary (66.67%), as calculated during the period before the injury took place.

On top of this, medical bills incurred from a workplace injury are usually fully covered. Again, the exact percentage can vary in different states, but two-thirds is by far the most common award.

No matter how long your waiting period is, it is essential to file a claim as early as possible to maximize any potential payout.

Get the Right Workers Comp Policy for Your Business

When asking, “When does workers’ comp start paying?”, the answer is complicated.

However, understanding the laws in your state will make it crystal clear. If you are an employer of any industry or size, you need to have workers’ compensation for all of your personnel.

By finding the right policy from an efficient and trustworthy provider, you can avoid legal trouble and help get your people back on track after an injury at work.

For this, we’ve got you covered. At Tom Needham Insurance, you’ll find the exact coverage for your business and your personnel in the event of a workplace injury. Click here to learn about the comprehensive policies we offer for employers in North Carolina.

Learn more about Tom Needham Insurance Agency at https://maps.app.goo.gl/bNDNbYNUWMVnCVPY7