How to Apply for Wyoming Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Important: We updated this article in December 2022 in order to provide the most current and accurate information. If you were injured or got sick on the job in the Cowboy State, you should focus on getting better, not stressing about the claims process. Unless you’re a federal employee, your Wyoming workers’ compensation claims will be handled at the state level. Here’s the information you need to get the benefits you’re entitled to.

Am I Eligible for Wyoming Workers’ Compensation Benefits?

According to the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services, workers’ comp coverage is mandatory for nearly all employers in the state. This coverage protects employers and injured or sick employees who may need compensation for medical fees and lost wages.

How Do I File a Wyoming Workers’ Compensation Claim?

If your workplace injury or illness requires emergency or urgent care, seek treatment immediately. Pro Tip: Tell the doctor your injury or illness is work-related.

While every case is different, this is usually what you need to do to file a Wyoming workers’ compensation claim:

1. Report your injury or illness to your supervisor within 72 hours. Don’t miss the deadline or you may be disqualified from receiving benefits.
2. Choose a doctor to treat your illness/injury. They can refer you to another provider (like a specialist). You’ll need written approval to change providers once the process starts. In some cases, your employer or the the Wyoming Workers’ Compensation Division may schedule an independent medical evaluation.
3. Fill out and file a Report of Injury form within 10 days. Sign the form before submitting your report either via mail or online here. Pro Tip: If you don’t file a claim within a year, you may become legally ineligible for workers’ comp benefits.
4. Get your 9-digit case number from the Division. Give the number to any doctor who treats you. This ensures they bill the Division directly for your medical costs.
5. If the Division denies your claim, you have 15 days to appeal in writing. You must mail back a letter requesting to appear before a hearing examiner. You can also apply for up to three months of Temporary Total Disability benefits while your case is under appeal.

Pro Tip: Keep your appointments! If you get a letter about an upcoming medical exam, show up on time. Skipping this exam may jeopardize or terminate your benefits.

Get more details on what workers’ compensation benefits cover.

What Else Should I Know About Wyoming Workers’ Compensation?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics analyzes workers’ comp data on most U.S. states and territories. Recordable cases in the Cowboy State decreased from 7,900 to 6,500 between 2017 and 2021. This was driven in part by a drop in service industry cases, which fell from 4,400 to 3,600. The number of employees who missed work, transferred, or received restrictions remained essentially unchanged over the period.  

Do I Qualify for Legal Assistance?

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

Pro Tip: Workers’ comp attorneys don’t ask for payment unless you get benefits. If your case is successful, then you only pay a reasonable, one-time fee.

Ready to see if you may qualify? Click the button below to start your free benefits evaluation now!

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