Skip to main content

New Jersey Workers' Compensation Laws

New Jersey requires all employers with at least one employee to carry workers' compensation insurance. The TTD benefit rate is 70% of average weekly wages — one of the highest rates in the nation. Claims must be filed within 2 years of the accident. Medical treatment has no dollar cap or time limit.

Last verified: 2026-02-25

Statute of Limitations

90-day employer notice; 2-year claim deadlineN.J.S.A. 34:15-17, 34:15-51

Injuries should be reported to the employer within 90 days (immediate reporting advised). Claim petitions must be filed within 2 years of the accident date or 2 years from the last payment of compensation/medical benefits. Occupational diseases: 2 years from when the worker knew or should have known the condition was work-related.

Key New Jersey Statutes

Employer Coverage RequirementN.J.S.A. 34:15-71 et seq.

All NJ employers with at least one employee (full-time, part-time, or seasonal) must carry workers' compensation insurance or be approved for self-insurance. Covers public employees, volunteer firefighters, first aid/rescue workers. Non-compliance is a criminal offense.

Temporary Total Disability BenefitsN.J.S.A. 34:15-12

TTD rate is 70% of average weekly wages — one of the highest in the nation. Maximum weekly benefit for 2026: $1,598.66. Minimum: $320.00. Medical treatment has no dollar cap or time limit.

Official Sources

Not Legal Advice

This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change — verify current statutes at NJ Department of Labor — Workers' Compensation. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney.

Other New Jersey Laws

Personal Injury Laws·Criminal Defense Laws·Family Laws·Immigration Laws·Employment Laws·Bankruptcy Laws·Medical Malpractice Laws·Social Security Disability Laws·Estate Planning Laws·Real Estate Laws·Landlord & Tenant Laws·Business Laws·Intellectual Property Laws·Tax Laws·Elder Laws·Civil Rights Laws·Domestic Violence Laws·Veterans Legal Services Laws·Healthcare & Benefits Laws