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Topic guideUpdated 2026-02-27

Denied Workers' Comp Claims in Maine — Your Options

What to do when your Maine workers' compensation claim is denied, including dispute resolution and appeals.

Having your workers' compensation claim denied does not mean you have no options. In Maine, you have the right to challenge a denial §39-A-315.

Common Reasons for Denial

Claims are frequently denied for these reasons:

1
Late notice to employer (must be within 60 days from date of injury for injuries on or after Jan. 1, 2020 (30 days for injuries on or after Jan. 1, 2013 and before Jan. 1, 2020; 90 days for injuries before Jan. 1, 2013)) §39-A-301
2
Dispute over whether the injury is work-related
3
Pre-existing condition arguments
4
Missed medical appointments or non-compliance with treatment
5
Filing deadline expired (2 years from date of injury or the date the employer files a required first report of injury, whichever is later; 6 years from the most recent payment if benefits have been paid) §39-A-306

The Dispute Resolution Process

Disputes heard by a workers' compensation hearing officer at the Maine Workers' Compensation Board §39-A-315.

Appeals

Appeal to the Appellate Division of the Board, then to the Maine Supreme Judicial Court.

Independent Medical Examination (IME)

Either party may request an IME; Board may order one §39-A-312. The IME results can significantly impact your claim.

⚠If the insurer requests an IME, you must attend. Failure to appear can result in suspension of benefits.
✓Before attending an IME arranged by the insurer, consult with an attorney. You have the right to have your own medical evidence reviewed and considered.
Prepare for Your Consultation
Quick checklist (Workers’ Compensation)
Gather these before your first consultation.
Incident report
(employer report, date/time of injury)
Medical records
(doctor visits, diagnoses, treatment plans)
Wage documentation
(pay stubs, tax returns, employment records)
General preparation tips only. Specific needs depend on your state and claim type.
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Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

General answers to common questions. Specific outcomes depend on your facts and timing.

If you have a deadline, court notice, or upcoming hearing, mention it when requesting assistance so timing can be evaluated promptly.

Related guides

Maine Workers' Compensation Guide — Benefits, Claims & Rights
Read →
Independent Medical Exams (IME) in Maine Workers' Comp
Read →
Maine Workers' Comp Settlements & Hearings — What to Expect
Read →
Legal authoritiesStatutes referenced on this page
Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 39-A § 39-A-315
Dispute Resolution Process
Disputes heard by a workers' compensation hearing officer at the Maine Workers' Compensation Board.
View →
Verified 2026-07-24 · quarterly review
Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 39-A § 39-A-301
Notice Deadline
Timely notice requirement: 60 days from date of injury for injuries on or after Jan. 1, 2020 (30 days for injuries on or after Jan. 1, 2013 and before Jan. 1, 2020; 90 days for injuries before Jan. 1, 2013).
  • 60 days from date of injury for injuries on or after Jan. 1, 2020 (30 days for injuries on or after Jan. 1, 2013 and before Jan. 1, 2020; 90 days for injuries before Jan. 1, 2013)
View →
Verified 2026-08-29 · quarterly review
Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 39-A § 39-A-306
Filing Deadline
Statute of limitations: 2 years from date of injury or the date the employer files a required first report of injury, whichever is later; 6 years from the most recent payment if benefits have been paid.
  • 2 years from date of injury or the date the employer files a required first report of injury, whichever is later; 6 years from the most recent payment if benefits have been paid
View →
Verified 2026-08-29 · quarterly review
Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 39-A § 39-A-312
Independent Medical Examination
Either party may request an IME; Board may order one.
View →
Verified 2026-07-24 · quarterly review
Citations link to official or authoritative sources. Laws change — verify current text before relying on any statute. How we verify citations →