Workers' Compensation: Idaho

Federal law and guidance on this subject should be reviewed together with this section.

Author: Nicole H. Farley, Fisher Phillips.

Summary

• Most Idaho employers are required to carry workers' compensation insurance, with few exceptions. See Covered Employers.
• Almost all individuals who work for wages in Idaho are covered by workers' compensation insurance with one major exception. See Covered Employees.
• Both injuries and occupational illnesses are compensable under the law, with few exceptions. See Compensable Injuries.
• Employers or their insurance carriers may not be liable to pay for injuries under certain circumstances. See Employer Defenses to Workers' Compensation Claims.
• Employers or their insurance carriers are required to pay for all reasonable and necessary medical care for an injured employee and may require an employee to have an independent medical exam. See Medical Benefits.
• Injured workers are entitled to wage-replacement payments, according to the type and duration of the injury. See Other Benefits.
• The amount of wage replacement benefits is determined by a schedule, set out in Idaho law. See Calculating Benefits.
• Injured employees must report incidents to the employer or its insurance carrier as soon as possible but not later than a certain time limit. See Claims Procedure.
• Employers are prohibited from retaliating against any individuals who file workers' compensation claims. See Retaliation and Interference.
• If either party disputes a claim for or rejection of workers' compensation benefits, the dispute may reach the Idaho Supreme Court. See Administrative Hearings and Court Proceedings.