Workers Compensation in Massachusetts
State-specific overview · Employment Law
Massachusetts requires most employers to carry workers' compensation insurance; employees cannot sue employers for work injuries.
How Massachusetts treats Workers Compensation
Massachusetts mandates workers' compensation coverage for most employers, with few exceptions. Injured workers receive medical benefits and wage replacement (typically 60% of wages) without proving employer fault. In exchange, employees waive the right to sue their employer in civil court. The state operates a competitive insurance market where employers purchase coverage from private insurers.
The general definition of Workers Compensation
Insurance that provides medical benefits and wage replacement to employees injured during work.
Workers compensation is a form of insurance that employers are required to carry to protect employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job. When an employee is hurt at work, workers compensation covers medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and a portion of lost wages while the employee recovers. In exchange, the employee generally gives up the right to sue the employer for the injury. The system is designed to provide quick, predictable benefits without the need for a lawsuit. Benefits vary by state and depend on the severity of the injury.
Read the full Workers Compensation entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.