Understanding Worker’s Comp Death Benefits
A fatal workplace accident can be tragic and difficult for everyone involved. Workers’ compensation in Florida provides death benefits to the families of deceased employees who died as a result of work-related injuries or illnesses.
The purpose of this article is to explain what these benefits are, who is eligible, and how to apply for them.
What are Workers’ Comp Death Benefits?
Workers’ compensation death benefits provide compensation to families who have lost a loved one because of work-related injuries or illnesses.
The money provided in these benefits can be used to cover funeral expenses, medical bills, and other expenses associated with the death of an employee. Please note that these benefits do not replace lost wages or salaries that the deceased would have earned had they lived.
Do Workers' Compensation Death Benefits apply to everyone?
For an individual to qualify for workers’ compensation death benefits in Florida, certain requirements must be met. In order to qualify, the deceased must have been employed by a Florida business at the time of their death and must have died as a result of an occupational disease (such as mesothelioma).
The family member filing the claim must also prove that they were financially dependent on the deceased at the time of death.
What Are The Steps In Filing A Claim For Workers' Compensation Death Benefits?
To file a claim for workers’ compensation death benefits in Florida, you will need to contact your local Department of Financial Services Division of Workers’ Compensation office with proof of employment and financial dependency.
In the event that your claim is approved, you will receive payment within 30 days of the date your claim was filed. If you disagree with any aspect of your decision, you may appeal to DFS.
Having to deal with unexpected losses caused by work-related injuries or illnesses can be challenging. It is for this reason that we want to remind employers and employees about Florida’s worker’s compensation; so that families can receive some financial assistance during this trying time.
