NJ Workers' Compensation Mileage Reimbursement Explained

New Jersey workers' compensation does reimburse mileage incurred for medically necessary travel, such as trips to doctors, therapy, or hospital appointments, provided the employee submits proper documentation and the expenses are approved by the insurer.

Eligibility for Mileage Reimbursement

Reimbursement applies when the travel is directly related to the work‑related injury or illness. The employee must be:

• Injured on the job or suffering a work‑related condition.
• Required to travel for medical treatment, diagnostic tests, or follow‑up appointments.
• Able to provide a mileage log or receipt showing dates, destinations, and miles driven.

Rate and Limits

New Jersey follows the federal mileage rate set by the IRS, which is updated annually. The rate covers fuel, wear and tear, and other vehicle expenses. There is no statutory cap on total mileage, but each claim is reviewed for reasonableness.

How to File a Mileage Claim

1. Keep a detailed log of each trip, noting the date, purpose, start and end locations, and total miles.2. Attach any supporting documents, such as appointment letters or medical provider statements.3. Submit the mileage log with the standard workers' compensation claim form to the employer's insurance carrier.

Common Issues and How to Avoid Them

Claims are often denied for incomplete logs, missing signatures, or travel that is not directly linked to treatment. To avoid delays, use a consistent mileage tracking app or a printed logbook, and double‑check that every entry includes the required details.

When Reimbursement Is Not Covered

Personal errands, commuting to and from work, or travel unrelated to medical care are excluded. Additionally, if the employee uses a company‑provided vehicle, mileage reimbursement may be handled differently under the employer's policy.

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