Workers’ Compensation In Nevada: An Overview (2026)

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Sarah Edwards

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Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.

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Summary

  • Workers’ comp pays for post-injury medical care and lost wages
  • It’s a no-fault system, so you don’t have to prove negligence
  • You usually get benefits quickly, but you can’t sue your employer

No one walks into work expecting this to be the day they get seriously hurt. However, work injuries can happen when you least expect them. In Nevada, you might be able to have your medical care covered and receive compensation for lost income through the workers’ compensation system.

A workers’ compensation lawyer can help you navigate the process. However, it may be helpful to have a general idea of what to expect.

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Workers’ Compensation in Nevada Overview

Like most states, Nevada has a workers’ compensation system. Employers pay insurance premiums, and if an employee suffers an injury on the job or a work-related illness, they may file a claim for compensation.

If the claim is approved, the employee will have their medical care covered. They also may qualify for partial wage replacement while they heal.

This system was developed as an alternative to personal injury lawsuits. As an employee, you don’t have to prove your employer was at fault for your injuries.

How Workers’ Compensation Works in Nevada

Here’s how the claim process works:

  • You report your injury to your employer (you have seven days to do so)
  • You seek medical attention
  • You fill out claim forms and give them to your employer
  • Your employer’s insurer has 30 days to make a decision
  • If your claim is approved, you will start receiving benefits
  • If it’s denied, you have a right to appeal

Technically speaking, you don’t need a work injury lawyer or workers’ compensation attorney to file a claim. However, an experienced lawyer may be able to maximize your chances of getting approved on your first try.

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Nevada Workers’ Compensation Requirements and Exemptions

Nevada requires virtually all employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance. However, there are several types of employees who do not have to be covered. They include the following:

  • Theatre/stage performers
  • Those in temporary or casual employment
  • Household and agricultural workers
  • Real estate brokers
  • Telemarketers

If an employer does not have the required workers’ compensation insurance, they may face fines and penalties. If an employee suffers a serious injury or dies on the job, the employer could face criminal charges.

Nevada Workers’ Compensation Laws

These are some of the key laws governing workers’ compensation in Nevada:

  • You must report your injury or illness to your employer within seven days
  • You have 90 days to file a claim
  • Your doctor has three days to file a C-4 (Employee’s Claim for Compensation/Report of Initial Treatment) form
  • Your employer has six days from receipt of the C-4 form to file their own forms with insurance
  • Once the insurance company receives the claim, it has 30 days to make a decision

Understanding and remembering the deadlines that apply to you is critical. If you miss a deadline, you may lose eligibility for benefits.

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Nevada Workers’ Compensation Benefits

If your claim is approved, workers’ compensation in Nevada will cover one or more of these benefits:

Medical Care

Workers’ compensation typically covers all medical care related to the injury. However, you may be required to see an approved provider.

Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Benefits

You may be paid two-thirds of your average monthly wage while you heal.

Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) Benefits

If you must temporarily work in a lower-paying role, you could be compensated two-thirds of the difference between your current wage and your pre-injury wage.

Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) Benefits

If you are left with a permanent disability but can still work, you may receive a lump sum payment based on your level of impairment.

Permanent Total Disability (PTD) Benefits

If you are permanently unable to work, you may receive ongoing monthly payments of two-thirds of your average monthly wage.

Death Benefit

If you die on the job, your dependents may receive compensation.

Vocational Rehabilitation

If you can’t return to your old job but can still work in some capacity, you may receive training to help you find a new career.

Nevada Workers’ Compensation Coverage

When a business is required to have workers’ compensation coverage, that coverage generally applies to those they employ (unless the employees are part of an exempt category). However, it’s important to understand that workers’ comp benefits typically don’t extend to 1099 workers and independent contractors.

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Cost of Workers’ Compensation Insurance in Nevada

Compared to many other states, Nevada’s rates for workers’ compensation insurance are fairly low. The average premium is $906.

Claims and Quotes for Nevada Workers’ Compensation

Understanding the average cost of workers’ compensation insurance may be useful. However, like other kinds of insurance companies, workers’ comp insurers adjust premiums based on risk.

This means that business owners with a history of claims (and especially multiple recent claims) from injured workers might get quotes that are higher than average.

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State Resources for Nevada Workers’ Compensation

The state of Nevada offers several resources for injured workers. Although you should be able to get copies of the required forms from your employer, you may also access them online.

If you’re looking for an overview of potential benefits and what to do if you’ve been hurt at work, the brief Employee Guide to Workers’ Compensation may be helpful as well. If you’re an employer, take a look at the corresponding employer guide.

Getting Help With a Nevada Workers’ Compensation Case

If your claim has been denied or you have questions about the process, the best course of action is to consult a workers’ compensation attorney. Whether you need a Nevada car accident lawyer or a workers’ comp attorney, we’re ready to match you with lawyers near you. Fill out our contact form to start with a free case review!

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • You should consult a workers’ compensation lawyer immediately. Your attorney may be able to negotiate a settlement with the insurance company or help you file an appeal.

  • You have 70 days from your claim denial to file a request for a hearing. At the hearing, you (or your lawyer) can present evidence and argue your case.

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