How Long Do You Have to File a Workers’ Comp Claim in MI?

Missouri Workers’ Compensation Deadlines: What You Need to Know

Missouri has two key deadlines for workers’ compensation claims:

• The injury reporting deadline – How soon you must report your injury to your employer.
• The claim filing deadline – The time limit for formally filing a claim with the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation if benefits are denied or delayed.

You may lose your right to compensation if you fail to meet either deadline.

Reporting Your Injury to Your Employer

Deadline: 30 Days from the Date of Injury or Diagnosis

Missouri law requires injured workers to report their injury to their employer within 30 days. This rule applies whether the injury is due to:

• A sudden accident (e.g., a fall, machinery accident, or burn)
• Repetitive stress injuries (e.g., carpal tunnel, back strain)
• Occupational illnesses (e.g., hearing loss, lung disease, toxic exposure)

The 30-day clock starts ticking from the date of the injury or when a doctor diagnoses you with a work-related condition (Missouri Workers’ Comp Reporting Rules: Labor.MO.gov).

How to Report the Injury

• Notify your supervisor, manager, or HR department as soon as possible.
• Submit the report in writing (email or a formal injury report is best).
• Include the date, time, location, and details of the injury.

If you fail to report your injury within 30 days, your employer or insurance company may deny your claim, arguing that the injury wasn’t work-related.

Filing a Formal Workers’ Comp Claim in Missouri

Deadline: 2 Years (in Most Cases), 3 Years in Some Cases

If your employer refuses to file a workers’ comp claim or their insurance company denies or delays your benefits, you may need to file a Claim for Compensation with the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation. (Missouri Workers’ Comp Filing Deadline: Labor.MO.gov)

• Standard Filing Deadline: 2 years from the date of injury OR the last payment of medical benefits.
• Extended Deadline: 3 years if your employer failed to file a First Report of Injury with the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation.

What If My Employer’s Insurance Pays for My Medical Treatment?

If the insurance company covers your medical bills, but later stops paying benefits, the 2-year deadline starts from the last medical treatment date.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?

If you fail to:

• Report your injury within 30 days, your employer may deny your claim.
• File your formal claim within 2-3 years, or you entirely lose your right to benefits.

The insurance company will argue that your claim is time-barred, meaning they no longer have to pay for medical care, lost wages, or disability benefits.

This is why acting quickly is crucial. If you’re unsure about your deadline, consult an attorney immediately to avoid missing out on compensation. (Missouri Workers’ Comp Late Filings: Labor.MO.gov)

How to Protect Your Rights & Maximize Your Benefits

To ensure you receive full workers’ comp benefits, follow these steps:

• Report your injury immediately – Even if symptoms seem minor, document everything.
• Seek medical treatment – Follow the doctor’s recommendations and attend all appointments.
• Keep records – Save copies of medical reports, injury reports, and any communication with your employer.
• File your claim on time – Don’t wait until the deadline is near.
• Consult a workers’ comp attorney – If your employer or insurance company denies, delays, or underpays your benefits, legal help can make all the difference. (Missouri Workers’ Comp Claim Filing Process: Labor.MO.gov)