What is workers compensation?

Workers' compensation is a state-based insurance system paying medical and wage-replacement benefits for work-related injuries and illnesses without requiring the employee to prove employer fault in exchange for limited exclusive remedy against the employer. ^[1][2][3] Benefits Medical care, temporary disability, permanent disability, vocational rehab, and death benefits for dependents. Filing Notify employer promptly; file a state claim form; deadlines are strict. Employer requirements Most states require coverage for employees; Texas allows certain non-subscriber election under Labor Code Chapter 406 with different liability exposure. ^[3] Federal context The OSH Act promotes workplace safety but does not replace state workers' comp. ^[1] Cornell overview See LII materials comparing workers' comp to tort. ^[2]