How do I file a workers' compensation claim in Tennessee?
Tennessee workers' comp is governed by Tenn. Code Ann. Title 50, Chapter 6, administered by the Bureau of Workers' Compensation. The 2014 Reform Act created the Court of Workers' Compensation Claims for injuries on/after July 1, 2014.
1. Coverage
Required for employers with 5 or more employees (1+ in construction or coal mining) under Tenn. Code § 50-6-102. Excluded: domestic workers, casual employees, farm laborers, federal employees, and qualifying independent contractors.
2. Notice to Employer
Written notice within 15 days (Tenn. Code § 50-6-201). Late notice can be excused with reasonable excuse and no prejudice but is strictly enforced.
3. Claim Filing
File a Petition for Benefit Determination (PBD) with the Bureau within 1 year of injury (Tenn. Code § 50-6-203). Mediation precedes adjudication.
4. Benefits
Medical 100% covered. Temporary Total Disability pays 66 2/3% of average weekly wage up to 110% of state average weekly wage (about $1,233/week for 2026), limited under § 50-6-207. Permanent Partial Disability uses MMI impairment rating × 450 weeks × multipliers under § 50-6-207(3). Permanent Total under § 50-6-207(4). Death benefits under § 50-6-210 plus $10,000 burial.
5. Independent Medical Exam (IME)
Carrier may require IME under § 50-6-204(d). Medical Impairment Rating Registry (MIR) physician resolves rating disputes (§ 50-6-204(d)(5)).
6. Choice of Doctor
Employer provides a Panel of three physicians (§ 50-6-204(a)(3)); employee selects the treating doctor from the panel.
7. Denied Claim / Appeal
Court of Workers' Compensation Claims judge holds compensation hearing. Appeal to the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board within 30 days, or directly to the Tennessee Supreme Court Special Workers' Compensation Appeals Panel (§ 50-6-225).
8. Third-Party Suit
Tenn. Code § 50-6-112 preserves third-party rights. Employer/carrier has subrogation lien; reduced for pro-rata attorney's fees and costs.
This is legal information, not legal advice.
- Panel of three physicians improperly offered
- MIR rating dispute
- Compensation hearing in Court of Workers' Compensation Claims
- Tenn. Code Ann. Title 50, Ch. 6
- Tenn. Code § 50-6-102
- Tenn. Code § 50-6-201
- Tenn. Code § 50-6-203
- Tenn. Code § 50-6-204
- Tenn. Code § 50-6-207
- Tenn. Code § 50-6-225
- Tenn. Code § 50-6-112
This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.