Many Arizona employees suffering from work-related injuries or illnesses are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. It provides financial assistance and medical care to employees injured on the job. Here’s what you should know about workers’ compensation benefits eligibility in Arizona:
1. Employment Status
Workers’ compensation benefits eligibility depend on the type of your employment status.
- Covered Employees: Most employees in Arizona are covered under the workers’ compensation system. They can be full-time, part-time, temporary, or seasonal employees.
- Independent Contractors: Independent contractors are not eligible for workers’ compensation. There is one exemption. The employer incorrectly tags an employee. They mistake an employee for an independent contractor.
- Domestic Workers and Casual Workers: Domestic and casual workers are not covered.
- Agricultural Workers: Agricultural workers are covered.
2. Employer Requirements
- Arizona mandates most businesses to have workers’ compensation insurance. Noncompliance entitles you to claim with the Arizona Industrial Commission’s Special Fund Division.
3. Work-Related Injury or Illness
- Work-related injuries and illnesses are eligible for workers’ compensation.
- On-Site Injuries: Injuries sustained on the employer’s premises are covered. It should happen when performing work tasks.
- Off-Site Injuries: Off-site injuries as a result of work-related tasks qualify.
- Pre-Existing Conditions: Aggravation of a pre-existing condition happens. It is a result of occupational activities. This qualifies for compensation.
- Occupational Illnesses: It covers conditions from exposure to chemicals at work.
4. Timely Reporting
- Report the injury to your employer within 90 days of the incident.
- There is a work-related illness or condition that develop over time. Report it upon knowing.
- Submit the Worker’s Report of Injury (Form 0401) to the Industrial Commission of Arizona (ICA). It formally starts the process in claiming workers’ compensation benefits.
5. Available Benefits
- Medical Benefits
- Temporary Disability Benefits
- Permanent Disability Benefits
- Death Benefits
6. Exceptions to Eligibility
- Horseplay injuries,
- Violations of safety protocols
- Intoxication
- Nonwork-related activities
Consultation and Disputes
Arizona workers’ compensation is a no-fault system. This makes you eligible for benefits no matter who caused the injury.
Consult with a workers’ compensation attorney to help you with your claim. Remember to request a hearing to make an appeal.
