Maine Workers’ Compensation Benefits: How to Apply

Important: We updated this article in May 2023 so all the information below is current and correct. If you were hurt or got sick on the job in the Pine Tree State, here’s the information you need to get Maine workers’ compensation benefits.

Who Doesn’t Automatically Have Maine Workers’ Compensation Coverage?

Nearly all public and private employers in Vacationland must provide Maine workers’ compensation insurance coverage to all employees, including some independent contractors. However, the following people are exempt from this coverage:

• Domestic servants working in an employer’s home
• Agricultural or aquaculture workers in seasonal or sporadic jobs with no more than 6 employees at any given time
• Sole proprietors of businesses with no other employees
• Members of limited liability companies (LLCs)
• Federal employees

Read more about how to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits in general.

How Does the Maine Workers’ Compensation Process Work?

Maine workers’ compensation benefits pay medical bills related to your workplace injury. You may also receive lost wage payments if you need more than a week off to recover.

Pro Tip: If you have any pre-existing health conditions, then you may want to consult a workers’ compensation attorney.

According to the Maine Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB), follow these steps to file your workplace accident claim:

1. See a nurse or doctor if your workplace injury or illness requires emergency or urgent care.

Tell them your injury or illness is work-related and keep your receipts and bills.

2. Report your workplace injury to your employer immediately.

You must give notice within 60 days to retain your right to file. Ask if you must see an employer-authorized doctor. If yes, only that doctor may treat your injury.

Pro Tip: After 10 days, you can change healthcare providers, but you must notify your employer and share the professional’s contact information.

3. Make sure your employer completes a First Report of Injury form within 7 days.

If your employer doesn’t do that – or won’t give you a copy of the report – contact the Maine WCB and ask to speak with a Troubleshooter.

4. Wait for your check.

Your employer must pay your approved Maine workers’ compensation claim within 14 days. The employer’s insurer should pay your medical bills directly. You get paid for missed days of work only after you’ve missed 7 days unless you’re recovering for more than two weeks. At that point, you also get paid for the first 7 days.

5. Take action if your claim is denied.

You’ll get a Notice of Controversy if your employer denies your claim. Then, a Troubleshooter will contact you to resolve the dispute. If you’re still denied, you can request mediation – and a formal hearing after that.

Pro Tip: If you’re confused or worried, then hire a Maine workers’ comp lawyer to help you appeal.

Every Maine workers’ compensation case is different, though, so your specific experience may vary. Get all the details on the Maine workers’ compensation program from this pamphlet.

What Else Should I Know About Maine Workers’ Compensation?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics analyzes workers’ comp data on most U.S. states and territories. Claims activity in the Pine Tree State was steady from 2017 to 2020, when recordable cases dipped to 19,300 and service-producing industry claims dropped to 12,400. Activity began to rebound in 2021 to pre-COVID levels, with total cases up to 21,200 and service claims up to 13,000. The total number of employees missing work, transferring jobs or receiving restrictions has risen above pre-COVID levels, increasing from 12,300 in 2017 to 13,400 in 2021.

Can I Get Free Legal Help With My Workers’ Comp Claim?

When you’re dealing with a work-related illness or injury, navigating the Maine workers’ compensation system can make the discomfort and frustration even worse. You may want to hire an experienced attorney in order to help you get maximum benefits faster. Your lawyer can negotiate with insurers, gather medical evidence to support your claim, and represent you at hearings.

Workers’ comp attorneys don’t charge unless you win benefits. You pay a reasonable, one-time fee only if your case is successful. See how a free workers’ comp evaluation works.

Ready to see if you may qualify? Click the button below to sign up for a free phone call during regular weekday business hours:

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