Do I Qualify for Workers’ Compensation?

Generally speaking, it is usually quite easy to be eligible for workers' compensation benefits. All that is required, broadly speaking, is that:

• Your injury or illness is work-related.

• You are an employee of that company or person.

• The employer is required to have workers' compensation insurance.

Not all employers are required to have workers' compensation insurance. Under Missouri law, companies with five or more employees are required to be covered. However, contractors with only one employee are also required to have workers' compensation insurance. The definition of "employee" includes full-time and part-time employees and temporary employees. In Kansas, the law is different, in that it requires all employers to carry workers' compensation insurance, except for those in certain agricultural pursuits or those with less than $20,000 in annual payroll.

Some work injuries stem from a single accident or incident, while others occur over time due to repetitive labor performed or being subjected to toxic substances. Our office has handled cases involving a wide variety of injuries or conditions, including, but not limited to back and neck injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome, epicondylitis, torn rotator cuffs, a torn meniscus and/or torn ACL in the knee, bulging and herniated discs, and psychological injuries.