Last Updated: September 9, 2021
In 1911, Wisconsin adopted the Workmen's Compensation Act. The intent of the law (Chapter 102, Wis. Stat.) was to require an employer to promptly and accurately compensate a worker for any injury suffered on the job, regardless of the existence of any fault or whose it might be.
Worker's compensation is protection mandated by Wisconsin law for a worker and his or her dependents against injury and death occurring in the course of employment. It is not health insurance and is not intended to compensate for disability other than disability caused by injury arising out of employment.
The purpose of the worker's compensation system is to provide financial and medical benefits to the victims of "work-related" injuries and their families regardless of fault. The laws place the financial burden on the employer and ultimately the consumer. This compensation is generally the exclusive remedy for the injured employee. A copy of the Worker's Compensation Act of Wisconsin can be found at State of Wisconsin, Department of Workforce Development, Worker's Compensation Act.
For more information on worker's compensation insurance, see the Consumer's Guide to Worker's Compensation Insurance for Employers or contact the Department of Workforce Development - Worker's Compensation Division .