Workers' Compensation Benefit Calculator
Estimate potential temporary total disability (TTD) benefits. This calculator is for illustrative purposes and not a substitute for professional advice.
— Select a State —
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Estimated Benefit Amount
$0.00
Understanding Workers' Compensation Benefit Calculations
Workers' compensation is a form of insurance providing wage replacement and medical benefits to employees injured in the course of their employment. The specifics of how these benefits are calculated can vary significantly by state and the nature of the injury. This calculator focuses on estimating Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits, which are paid when an employee is unable to perform any work duties for a period due to a work-related injury.
Key Components of TTD Calculation:
- Average Weekly Wage (AWW): This is the cornerstone of most workers' compensation benefit calculations. It typically represents the employee's earnings over a specific period (often 13 weeks or 52 weeks) before the injury, including overtime, bonuses, and other forms of compensation, divided by the number of weeks worked. The exact method for calculating AWW is dictated by state law and can be complex.
- Benefit Rate (Percentage): Most states pay a percentage of the employee's AWW as their weekly disability benefit. This percentage is usually set by statute. Common rates are between 66 2/3% and 80% of the AWW.
- State-Specific Maximums and Minimums: Each state has statutory maximum and minimum weekly benefit amounts. Your calculated benefit cannot exceed the state's maximum, nor can it fall below the state's minimum (if you meet the criteria for it). These limits are often tied to the state's average weekly wage for all workers.
- Duration of Disability: TTD benefits are paid only for the period an employee is medically determined to be totally disabled and unable to work. There are often limits on the total duration benefits can be paid, depending on the state and the severity of the injury.
How the Calculation Works (General Formula):
The general formula for estimating TTD benefits is:
Estimated Weekly Benefit = (AWW × Benefit Rate Percentage) capped by State Maximums and floorsed by State Minimums
Then, the total estimated benefit for a period is:
Total Estimated Benefit = Estimated Weekly Benefit × Number of Weeks of Disability
State Variations and Important Considerations:
It is crucial to understand that the following are simplified estimations. Each state has unique rules:
- State Benefit Rate: The percentage of AWW paid as benefits differs by state. For example, California typically pays two-thirds of the AWW.
- Maximum Benefit Limits: States set weekly maximums. For instance, if an employee's calculated benefit is $1,200 but the state maximum is $1,100, they will receive $1,100.
- Minimum Benefit Limits: Some states have minimum weekly benefits for eligible workers, even if their AWW would result in a lower calculated amount.
- Definition of AWW: How the AWW is calculated can vary. Some states consider only regular wages, while others include overtime and bonuses.
- Types of Disability: This calculator estimates Temporary Total Disability (TTD). Other types, like Temporary Partial Disability (TPD), Permanent Partial Disability (PPD), and Permanent Total Disability (PTD), have different calculation methods.
- Waiting Periods: Most states have a "waiting period" (e.g., 3 to 7 days) before TTD benefits begin. If disability lasts beyond a certain duration (e.g., 14 days), benefits may be paid retroactively for the waiting period.
Disclaimer:
This calculator provides a general estimate based on common workers' compensation principles. It does not account for all state-specific nuances, legal interpretations, or individual circumstances. For accurate information and advice regarding your specific workers' compensation claim, please consult with a qualified legal professional or your state's workers' compensation board.