Workers’ compensation is a crucial benefit program for social stability. It protects those who work hard to support themselves from the risk of poverty because of their employment. Otherwise, the risk involved with many professions, like construction work, might outweigh the benefits of the paycheck that work provides.
Workplace accidents cause injury and death, and countless people develop work-related medical conditions due to repetitive job functions. Whether you develop cancer because of chemical exposure at work or a back injury from heavy lifting in a warehouse, you may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits.
The disability pay offered can help replace some of your wages until you can get back to work. How much can you expect to receive in disability pay?
Workers’ compensation only provides partial payment
When it comes to medical expenses necessary to recover from a work-related injury, employees in Pennsylvania can expect workers’ compensation to fully cover them. There will also be disability pay available, although it won’t be full coverage.
How much a worker receives depends on what they usually make compared to the average weekly wage across the state. Higher earning individuals may ultimately receive a far lower percentage of their pay from workers’ compensation than those who make less than average wages. For 2022, the maximum weekly compensation amount available is $1,205.
Most workers can expect to receive up to two-thirds of their average weekly wage, but no more than the current maximum. Lower-earning workers whose weekly income is $669.43 or less can receive up to 90% of their average weekly wage when they qualify for total disability benefits.
You have a right to claim the benefits that are there to protect you
Some people feel a sense of shame when they consider filing for workers’ compensation benefits. They think it is a blemish on their work history.
However, employers should not punish you in any way for claiming benefits. They should accommodate you if you need support, such as reduced job responsibilities, during your recovery. They should not allow your need to file a claim to influence how they treat you for the duration of your employment with the company.
Understanding your rights and the benefits available to you can help you navigate the complicated Pennsylvania workers’ compensation insurance system.