Idaho law guide
Hurt at Work in Idaho? What the 60-Day Clock Means
Idaho gives injured workers strong comp rights — and deadlines that start running the day you're hurt. Here's how the system works, from first report to permanent disability.
This guide is general information, not legal advice, and ID Legal Help is not a law firm. Deadlines and rules vary by situation — a participating Idaho law firm can explain what applies to you. No outcome is guaranteed.
Attorney advertising. ID Legal Help is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Your information may be shared with a participating Idaho law firm for review. No outcome is guaranteed.
60 days and one year: the deadlines
Idaho requires notice of a work injury to your employer within 60 days (Idaho Code 72-701), and a formal claim with the Idaho Industrial Commission within one year — a hard cutoff that can permanently bar benefits. Report first, in writing, even if the injury seems minor — many serious claims start as 'I thought it would get better.'
What comp pays
Idaho comp covers medical treatment, a portion of lost wages while you recover, and permanent impairment benefits when an injury leaves lasting damage — generally regardless of fault. Impairment ratings can be challenged, including through an independent medical examination, and the rating drives what a serious claim is worth. Start at the Idaho work injury hub.
Denied? The Industrial Commission path
Denials are common — 'not work-related,' late notice, pre-existing conditions. Disputed claims are heard through the Idaho Industrial Commission, with strict deadlines at each step. Many denials are challenged successfully; missing a deadline usually isn't. Start at the denied claims hub.
Farms, forests, plants, and mines
Idaho's signature industries add wrinkles. Farm and dairy workers are generally covered by Idaho comp (see the farm worker hub), as are loggers in the North Idaho timber country (logging hub), food-processing workers in the potato and dairy plants (food plant hub), and Silver Valley miners (mining hub). In each, comp is generally the exclusive remedy against your employer — but a third-party claim can exist against an equipment maker or another company on site.
Get help where you are
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Idaho law FAQ
Common questions
How long do I have to report a work injury in Idaho?
Notice to your employer within 60 days, and a formal claim with the Idaho Industrial Commission within one year — a hard cutoff. This is general information, not legal advice.
Can I sue my employer for a work injury in Idaho?
Usually not — comp is generally the exclusive remedy against your employer. But third-party claims against a negligent driver, contractor, or equipment maker can apply on top of comp. A participating Idaho law firm can review which applies.
Is this legal advice?
No. ID Legal Help is a legal advertising website, not a law firm. This guide is general information; a participating Idaho law firm can review your specific situation for free.
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