If your workers’ comp checks suddenly stop, your employer or its insurer should give you a reason for ending your benefits. Missouri law sets rules for when temporary disability benefits can end and requires notice when the employer terminates them. Here’s what to know.
When can your workers’ comp benefits stop?
Your temporary disability benefits can stop when you return to work, reach maximum medical improvement or something else allows your employer to end or reduce your payments. For example, your benefits may change if your doctor says you can return to work, even if you still have restrictions.
What notice should you receive?
If your employer terminates your workers’ comp benefits, it must notify you of the termination and explain the reason for stopping your payments. Missouri also requires the employer or insurer to file a Notice of Commencement or Termination of Compensation with the Division of Workers’ Compensation. It records when your benefits ended and why.
What can you do if your benefits suddenly stop?
If you disagree with the decision, you can challenge the termination through the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation. Keep the notice, payment records, medical records and communications about your claim so you have a clear record of what happened.
Take action when your payments stop
A sudden stop in workers’ comp benefits can leave you wondering how you will cover your bills, but you do not have to accept the decision without understanding why it happened. Review the notice, gather your claim records and consider speaking with a workers’ comp attorney if you believe the insurer stopped your benefits too soon.