You’re receiving workers’ compensation, and life points you toward a fresh start in a new state. Maybe it’s for family, a job opportunity for your partner, or simply a much-needed change of pace. But then the big question hits you: Can you move to another state while on workers’ compensation?
It’s not a simple situation. You rely on your benefits to recover, pay bills, and get medical treatment. So naturally, you’re wondering if moving might interfere with that. Could your payments stop? Would you need to reapply? What if your new state plays by different rules?
Answering these questions isn’t as simple as saying yes or no. Thus, this blog will explain what moving means for your case, what steps to take before you go, and how to protect your benefits.
Can You Move to Another State While Collecting Workers’ Compensation?
Let’s get right to the point: in most cases, you can move to another state while on workers’ compensation.
However, that doesn’t mean you can pack up and go without planning. Because work comp laws and systems are managed at the state level, moving out of the state where your injury occurred can create a few complications.
For example, your medical treatment might be tied to a specific network of providers in your current state. Or, your benefits might be based on state-specific rules—like how long wage replacement lasts or what kinds of treatments are covered.
While you don’t lose your benefits just because you change your address, you do need to take a few proactive measures to ensure that everything continues smoothly.
What to Consider Before Moving
Before you start packing, it’s important to understand how moving could impact your workers’ compensation benefits. While you won’t lose them outright, certain aspects of your case—such as medical treatment and ongoing payments—may require adjustments.
Here’s what you need to consider before making the move:
1. Notify Your Insurance Provider or Employer
Workers’ compensation is a legal agreement between you, your employer, and the insurance provider. Moving to another state affects your ability to receive care under your current arrangement, so you must notify all relevant parties before relocating.
Failing to do so could result in delayed payments, denied medical coverage, or even a suspension of benefits. To avoid complications:
- Contact your employer and your workers’ comp insurance carrier in writing.
- Request confirmation that your benefits will continue after your move.
- Ask about any paperwork you may need to complete before leaving.
2. Medical Treatment Access in Your New State
Workers’ comp laws vary by state, and one of the biggest differences is how medical care is handled. You must choose from a network of approved providers in some states, while in others, you can pick your own doctor.
This is important because:
- If your new state has strict provider networks, you may need to get approval for a new doctor.
- If ongoing treatment (such as physical therapy or surgery) is required, you may need pre-authorization to continue receiving care.
3. State Laws May Vary
Even though you won’t have to reapply for workers’ comp, your new state may have different regulations regarding:
- Medical exams – Some states require Independent Medical Exams (IMEs) more frequently than others.
- Reimbursement policies – Travel expenses for medical appointments may be handled differently.
- Settlement laws – If you plan to settle your case, the laws in your new state could impact your options.
For example, Minnesota is one of the states where workers’ compensation laws have specific rules. Thus, researching the requirements before finalizing your move to a new state is always a good idea.
How to Move Without Disrupting Your Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Preparation is key to a smooth transition if you’ve decided to relocate. By taking the right steps ahead of time, you can avoid delays in your payments and ensure continued access to medical care. Here’s how:
1. Get Written Confirmation That Your Benefits Will Continue
It’s not enough to assume your benefits will transfer smoothly. Ask your insurance carrier for written confirmation that:
- Your medical expenses will still be covered in your new state.
- Your wage replacement benefits won’t be interrupted.
- Any required Independent Medical Exams (IMEs) can be completed remotely or in your new location.
2. Secure Medical Records and Find a New Doctor
Before leaving, request a full copy of your medical records from your current doctor. This ensures continuity of care and speeds up the process of finding a new, approved healthcare provider in your new state.
Some states require you to use specific workers’ comp doctors, so check in advance whether your insurance carrier has a provider network in your new location.
3. Keep Track of All Documentation
Moving can be stressful, but keeping organized is essential when dealing with workers’ comp. So, maintain a file with:
- Copies of all communication with your employer and insurer.
- Any approvals or denials related to medical care in your new state.
- Receipts for relocation expenses (in case reimbursement applies).
4. Work With Professionals to Make Moving Easier
A major part of relocating—especially when dealing with workers’ compensation—is ensuring the process is as smooth as possible. If you’re moving, choosing trusted movers in the state can help reduce stress, allowing you to focus on your recovery instead of the logistics of the move. This is particularly important if you need to stay close to medical facilities or avoid physical strain due to your injury.
5. Prepare for an Independent Medical Exam (IME)
As mentioned, some states require you to attend an IME before allowing your benefits to continue in another state. Missing an exam could result in your benefits being delayed or suspended. If you’re required to undergo an IME, schedule it as soon as possible to avoid any disruptions.
The Takeaway
So, can you move to another state while on workers’ compensation? The answer is yes—although you’ll need to do a bit of prep work, which involves securing your medical records, verifying coverage, and keeping communication lines with your employer and insurer open. Of course, if you’re unsure about the legal details or how your new state’s laws might affect your case, don’t hesitate to consult a workers’ compensation attorney in your target state. A quick check-in now could save you from delays or complications later.
