While most employers in the United States must maintain workers’ compensation coverage for their employees, every state sets its own laws regarding coverage. Because of the different state laws, the maximum workers’ compensation benefits that are payable do vary. When you are unable to work because of an occupational disease or workplace injury, you will receive compensation that is about two-thirds of your regular salary. Each state has a maximum allowable amount for payout. Of course, when the laws are revised, that figure can change. The Maximum Payouts For Workers’ Compensation As an example, as of January 1, 2000, in Alabama the maximum weekly workers’ compensation payout for missed work was $394. By the following year on January 1, the maximum allowable amount was $410 per week. As of January 1, 2015, it had increased to $629, and by January 1, 2018 it was $673. As of October 1, 2017, in California the maximum weekly payout was $1,287. As of July 1, 2018, injured workers in Delaware could get as much as $713.65 per week from workers’ compensation. Starting July 1, 2016, $780 per week was the maximum allowed in Indiana. In Kentucky, an injured worker can get up to $848.41 per week since the new totals took effect on January 1, 2018. In Louisiana, an injured worker can receive $653 per week as of September 1, 2017. Determining the Maximum Allowable Amount From Workers’ Compensation State laws change often, so a workers’ compensation attorney should be able to tell you the current maximum allowed in your state. There is also a chart on the Social Security Administration site at secure.ssa.gov/poms.nsf/lnx/0452150045. Workers’ compensation then gives that worker a lump sum settlement, and those funds are readily available for the worker when and as she or he needs them. Usually, lump sum settlements are handled by a workers’ compensation attorney who is experienced in negotiating with insurance companies. Agreeing To Workers’ Compensation Payout Your date of injury has a lot to do with the value of your settlement. As an example, in Connecticut, a worker injured on or after July 1, 1993, had a maximum payout of $1,138 per week as of October 1, 2009. However, someone injured between October 1, 1987 and June 30, 1993, could receive a maximum of $1,382. The amount you receive is dependent on the date of injury and the state laws at that time. If you have been injured at work, you should consult with a workers’ compensation attorney. To get your claim on track, complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page, so an attorney in your state can review the details of your case. Additional Resources Workers' Compensation By State What Damages Can I Receive For My Claim?
