Q: How much can I expect to be paid under workers' compensation?

We advise against having any preconceived notion, or expectation, in terms of how much you're going to be paid while you're out of work in the Worker's Compensation system. It is extremely complicated in terms of your rights, remedies, and entitlements.

In situations where you're out of work due to a workplace injury, your compensation will depend on what type of disability applies to your particular injury and condition. If you are on a "No Work" status, then you will qualify for what's called Temporary Total Disability. Temporary Total Disability will pay two thirds, or 66.66%, of your average weekly wage, subject to maximum compensation rates. Maximum compensation rates increase each year based upon cost of living adjustments.

Should an authorized treating doctor deem that you are now on restricted duty or light duty, and your employer cannot bring you back to light duty employment, you can still qualify for Temporary Partial Disability. Temporary Partial Disability is a few percentage points less than the Temporary Total Disability amount.