Workers’ compensation is probably a familiar concept to you. Your employer in New Hampshire carries this insurance to protect itself and you in the event you suffer an injury while working. The insurance offers you benefits to help pay for medical expenses, and if some cases, for lost wages. Did you know, though, that workers’ compensation also offers death benefits in the event that you or a loved one is killed while on the job?

The New Hampshire Department of Labor explains that death benefits from workers’ compensation are available to your surviving dependents. This is often a spouse. It may also include your dependent children.

Your spouse may receive benefits until he or she remarries if there are no minor children. If you do have minor children and your spouse remarries, there is a lump sum payment for the remaining benefits to the children’s guardian.

As part of the death benefits, your dependents may receive money to pay for your burial expenses up to $10,000. This is in addition to the benefit amount figured by the commissioner. The benefit amount may vary based on the type of dependency. If your children receive benefits, they will only get them until they turn 18 or until they are 25 if they remain in school. If you have a special needs child, he or she could get lifetime benefits.

While you never want to think you will die while at work, it is nice knowing that there is this extra protection for your family. This information is for education and is not legal advice.