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Vermont law

Workers' Compensation Laws in Vermont.

Vermont's workers' compensation system is a no-fault system — you do not need to prove employer negligence to receive benefits. Nearly all employers are required to carry coverage. Temporary total disability benefits pay two-thirds of the worker's average weekly wage, subject to an annual maximum. Workers must notify their employer within 6 months and file a formal claim within 6 years.

Last verified: 2026-02-26

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State law

Statute of Limitations

6 months (notice) / 6 years (claim)21 V.S.A. §§ 656, 660

You must notify your employer of the injury within 6 months. A formal claim for benefits must be filed within 6 years from the date of injury. The employer must report the injury to the Department of Labor within 72 hours.

Exceptions

Occupational Disease2 years from discovery21 V.S.A. § 660

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

State law

Filing Requirements

Notice to Employer21 V.S.A. § 656

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

Employer Report to Department

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.

Insurance Company Investigation

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.

State law

Key Vermont Statutes

Employer Coverage Requirement21 V.S.A. § 601

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.

Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Benefits21 V.S.A. § 642

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.

Choice of Physician21 V.S.A. § 640

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.

Anti-Retaliation21 V.S.A. § 710

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.

Vocational Rehabilitation21 V.S.A. § 641

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.

State law

Official Sources

Not Legal Advice

This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Vermont.

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