How Workers' Compensation Payments Work in New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, workers' compensation is a no‑fault system that provides medical benefits and wage replacement to employees injured on the job. Employers pay an insurance premium, and when an injury occurs, the employee files a claim with the state's Workers' Compensation Commission (WCC). Once approved, the employee receives monthly wage replacement and medical coverage. The process is designed to be straightforward, but it hinges on accurate wage reporting and timely payments.
- How Workers' Compensation Payments Work in New Hampshire
- Reporting Wages: The Foundation of Payment Calculations
- Filing a Claim: Step‑by‑Step
- 1. Notify Your Employer
- 2. Submit the Wage Report
- 3. Receive the Decision Letter
- 4. Receive Payments
- Key Deadlines and Timelines
- Common Pitfalls for Employers
- What Happens if a Claim is Denied?
- Resources and Contact Information
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Reporting Wages: The Foundation of Payment Calculations
Wage reporting is the first step that determines how much an injured worker will receive. Employers must submit a Wage Report to the WCC each pay period. The report includes:
- Employee name and ID
- Gross wages earned
- Hours worked
- Pay period dates
These figures are used to calculate the wage replacement amount, which is typically 75% of the employee's average weekly wage, capped at a state‑set maximum. Accurate reporting prevents under‑ or over‑payment and ensures compliance with state law.
Filing a Claim: Step‑by‑Step
1. Notify Your Employer
Employees must inform their employer within 30 days of the injury. The employer then files an initial claim with the WCC using Form IC-1.
2. Submit the Wage Report
After the claim is filed, the employer must provide the WCC with the wage report for the week of the injury and subsequent weeks until the injury is resolved.
3. Receive the Decision Letter
The WCC reviews the claim and wage data, then issues a decision letter stating the approved benefits and payment schedule.
4. Receive Payments
Once approved, the employee receives monthly wage replacement checks. Medical benefits are billed directly to the insurer.
Key Deadlines and Timelines
| Event | Deadline | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Employee injury notification to employer | Within 30 days | Prevents claim denial |
| Initial claim filing (Form IC-1) | Within 30 days of injury | Starts the benefits process |
| Wage report submission | Each pay period | Ensures accurate benefit calculation |
| Decision letter issuance | Within 30 days of claim filing | Provides payment schedule |
Common Pitfalls for Employers
Misreporting wages, late submissions, or incomplete claim forms can trigger delays or penalties. Employers should:
- Maintain accurate payroll records
- Use electronic wage reporting if available
- Review the WCC's guidelines annually
What Happens if a Claim is Denied?
Employees can appeal a denial within 30 days of receiving the decision letter. The appeal requires additional documentation, such as medical records or a detailed injury narrative. If the appeal is denied, the employee may seek judicial review through the New Hampshire Workers' Compensation Court.
Resources and Contact Information
• Workers' Compensation Commission: https://www.nh.gov/nhcom/
• Form IC-1 (Initial Claim): Download PDF
• Wage Report Instructions: Download PDF