Vermont Workers' Compensation Laws

For occupational diseases, the claim must be filed within 2 years of the date the disease was reasonably discoverable and apparent.

Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. Vermont law requires notice within 6 months of the injury. Written notice is recommended.

The employer must file an Employee Claim and Employer's First Report of Injury (Form 1) with the Department of Labor within 72 hours of receiving notice of the injury.

The employer's insurance company has 21 days from the date the employer received notice of the injury to investigate and determine if the injury is covered.

Nearly all Vermont employers must carry workers' compensation insurance. This includes part-time, seasonal, and full-time workers. Sole proprietors and partners may elect to be excluded.

TTD benefits are two-thirds (66.67%) of the worker's average weekly wage based on earnings in the 26 weeks preceding the injury, subject to an annual maximum ($1,836/week effective July 1, 2025). Workers must miss at least 4 days to qualify.

Injured workers in Vermont have the right to select their own treating physician. The employer's insurer must pay for reasonable and necessary medical treatment.

Employers may not discharge or discriminate against an employee for filing or intending to file a workers' compensation claim, or for testifying in a workers' compensation proceeding.

If you cannot return to your previous job due to the work injury, Vermont provides vocational rehabilitation services to help you return to suitable employment.