Quick Answer
Complete guide to North Carolina workers' compensation including filing with Industrial Commission, benefit calculations, and navigating the NC workers' comp system.
North Carolina workers' compensation provides medical treatment and wage replacement for injured workers, administered by the North Carolina Industrial Commission. If you've been injured at work in NC, you're entitled to no-fault benefits.
North Carolina offers comprehensive benefits including up to $1,215/week (2026), full medical coverage, and permanent disability awards. Understanding NC workers' comp laws maximizes your benefits.
Quick Facts: North Carolina Workers' Compensation
| Topic | North Carolina Law | Most States |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | 3+ employees | Varies (1-4+) |
| Temporary Disability | 66.67% of average weekly wage | 60-70% AWW |
| Maximum Weekly (2026) | $1,215/week | Varies |
| Filing Deadline | 2 years from injury | 1-3 years |
| State Agency | North Carolina Industrial Commission | Varies |
Who Is Covered
Employer threshold: 3+ employees
Covered: Full-time, part-time, seasonal, temporary workers
Exemptions: Independent contractors, sole proprietors, agricultural workers (some), domestic workers
Benefits Available
Medical Benefits
Coverage: All reasonable and necessary treatment
No cost: No deductibles or co-pays
Includes: Doctors, hospital stays, surgery, prescriptions, therapy, equipment
Doctor selection: Employer chooses initially; employee can request change after treatment
Temporary Total Disability
Amount: 66.67% of average weekly wage
Maximum (2026): $1,215/week
Waiting period: 7 days (retroactive after 21 days)
Duration: Up to 500 weeks
Permanent Disability
Partial: Based on degree of disability and wage-earning capacity
Total: 66.67% of AWW for life (max $1,215/week)
Scheduled injuries: Fixed weeks for specific body parts
Death Benefits
Burial: Up to $10,000
Dependency: 66.67% of wages to surviving dependents (max $1,215/week)
Filing Process
Step 1: Report to employer within 30 days
Step 2: Seek treatment from employer's designated physician
Step 3: Employer files Form 19 with Industrial Commission
Step 4: If denied, file Form 18 (Notice of Accident)
Deadline: 2 years from injury
Learn more: How to File a North Carolina Workers' Comp Claim
North Carolina Industrial Commission
Website: www.ic.nc.gov
Services: File claims, hearings, access forms
Phone: (919) 807-2501
Covered Injuries
- Work-related accidents
- Occupational diseases
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Aggravation of pre-existing conditions
Not covered: Willful misconduct, intoxication, horseplay
Learn more: Covered Injuries in North Carolina Workers' Comp
Retaliation Protections
North Carolina law (N.C.G.S. § 97-6.1) prohibits discharge for filing claims.
Remedies: Reinstatement, back pay
Learn more: North Carolina Workers' Comp Retaliation
FAQs
Q: How much will I receive? A: 66.67% of average weekly wage, maximum $1,215/week (2026).
Q: Can I choose my doctor? A: Not initially. Employer chooses, but you can request change.
Q: How long to file? A: 2 years from injury.
Q: Can I be fired? A: No. North Carolina prohibits retaliation.
Q: Need a lawyer? A: Consider one for denied claims or permanent disability.
Related North Carolina Topics
Legal Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about North Carolina workers' compensation laws. It is not legal advice. Consult a qualified North Carolina workers' compensation attorney.
Last updated: January 5, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Is Covered?
What is medical Benefits?
What is temporary Total Disability?
What is permanent Disability?
What is death Benefits?
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