Remote work is here to stay. But what happens if you get injured while working from home? Many Minnesota employees are surprised to learn that you can still file for workers’ compensation even if your job site is your living room.
Minnesota law does not distinguish between traditional and home offices regarding work-related injuries. If your injury happened during the course and scope of your employment, you may be eligible for benefits. Here’s how workers’ compensation for remote workers works—and what to do if you get hurt while telecommuting.
Are Remote Workers Eligible for Workers’ Compensation in Minnesota?
Yes. You can file a workers’ compensation claim if you work remotely and suffer an injury tied to your job duties. This includes sudden accidents (like tripping over work equipment) or gradual injuries (like carpal tunnel syndrome).
To qualify, your injury must have occurred while you were “on the clock” or performing tasks related to your employment. Minnesota Statutes Chapter 176 lays out these eligibility requirements for injured workers.
Some examples of valid claims include:
- A back injury from lifting heavy work files
- Repetitive strain injuries due to poor desk ergonomics
- A chair collapse or equipment failure during work hours
If your employer authorizes your remote work, they are still responsible for providing a safe work environment, even if that environment is in your home. However, proving that an injury happened during work duties (and not while folding laundry) can get tricky.
Common Remote Work Injuries Covered by Workers’ Comp
Minnesota’s workers’ compensation system applies to major accidents and occupational injuries that develop over time. Remote employees often deal with injuries caused by poor home office setups or extended screen time.
Some common work-from-home injuries include:
- Musculoskeletal pain from improper seating or desk setups
- Eye strain or headaches from poor lighting or screen glare
- Wrist and hand injuries from non-ergonomic keyboards or repetitive tasks
- Slip and fall injuries during work-related tasks at home
If you suffer a job-related injury while remote, reporting it promptly and seeking medical care is essential. Do not assume your claim will not count because it happened in your house.
Employer Responsibilities for Remote Worker Safety
Employers who allow telecommuting still have legal obligations for their workers’ safety. This includes ensuring remote employees understand job expectations, work hours, and how to report an injury.
Employers may:
- Provide ergonomic resources or training
- Set clear schedules and communication protocols
- Require remote employees to designate a specific home workspace
Still, you do not need a “perfect” setup to qualify for benefits. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system in Minnesota. That means you can file a claim even if your home office was not ideal, as long as the injury happened during work tasks.
How to File a Workers’ Comp Claim if You Work From Home
Filing a workers’ comp claim as a remote employee follows the same process as filing one for an in-office worker. However, proving the injury was work-related can be more difficult without direct oversight or witnesses.
Here’s what to do if you suffer a remote work-related injury:
- Report the injury immediately to your employer. Minnesota law gives you 14 days, but reporting sooner helps protect your claim.
- Document everything. Take photos of your workspace and the injury. Write down what you were doing when the injury occurred.
- Get medical care. Let your provider know it happened during work. Their notes can help connect the injury to your job duties.
- File your claim. Your employer should complete the First Report of Injury form and submit it to their workers’ compensation insurer.
If your claim gets denied—or you are pressured not to report it—speak with a lawyer experienced in telecommuter injury compensation. Your right to benefits shouldn’t disappear just because your cubicle has a couch.
When to Call a Workers’ Comp Lawyer
Remote work injuries often fall into gray areas. Insurance companies may argue that the injury happened outside work hours or blame the home environment. You might get denied even if your injury affects your ability to work.
That’s when legal help matters. A lawyer can:
- Gather evidence to support your claim
- Push back against low settlement offers
- Represent you in hearings if your claim is denied
You deserve clarity about your rights—and peace of mind while recovering.
Protect Your Rights as a Remote Worker
If you’ve been injured while working remotely in Minnesota, don’t wait to take action. Please fill out our contact form or call our office today at (612) 334-3444 today to connect with Robert Wilson & Associates. Our team is here to help you understand your rights and take the first step toward securing the necessary benefits.