Estimate your weekly workers' compensation benefits, permanent disability payments, and total settlement value using your state's official formula and maximum benefit rate.
Workers' compensation typically pays 66.67% of your average weekly wage, subject to a state maximum that ranges from $606 (Mississippi) to $2,194 (Iowa). The average workers' compensation settlement is $21,800 nationally. Weekly TTD benefits continue until you return to work or reach maximum medical improvement.
Workers' compensation pays a percentage of your pre-injury average weekly wage (AWW). In most states, the rate is 66.67%, meaning two-thirds of your gross weekly earnings. Some states use different rates: Iowa and Michigan pay 80% of after-tax wages, Connecticut and Rhode Island pay 75% of spendable earnings, and Massachusetts and New Hampshire pay 60%.
Every state sets a maximum weekly benefit that caps your payment regardless of your actual wage. In 2026, these maximums range from $606 per week in Mississippi to $2,194 per week in Iowa. If two-thirds of your wage exceeds the state maximum, you receive the maximum. This cap means that higher-earning workers receive a smaller percentage of their actual pay.
Benefits are tax-free at both federal and state levels. This means your after-tax income replacement is closer to 80% to 90% of take-home pay for most workers, despite the headline rate of 66.67%.
Sources: National Academy of Social Insurance (NASI), state workers' compensation boards. Updated .
The average workers' compensation settlement is approximately $21,800 according to the National Academy of Social Insurance. But averages can be misleading. Settlements vary enormously based on injury severity, the body part affected, and your state.
Soft tissue injuries such as sprains and strains typically settle for $10,000 to $25,000. Back injuries, the most common workplace injury, average $23,000 but can reach $50,000 or more when surgery is involved. Fractures average $30,000 to $50,000. Traumatic brain injuries can exceed $100,000. Amputations average $109,000.
Settlement value is driven primarily by your permanent impairment rating (assigned by a physician after you reach maximum medical improvement), your weekly compensation rate, and the scheduled number of weeks for your body part in your state. Medical bills are typically paid separately on top of the settlement. Attorney fees in workers' compensation cases are usually 15% to 20% of the settlement, lower than the 33% typical in personal injury.
Your strongest leverage in negotiating a higher settlement is an independent medical examination (IME) that establishes a higher impairment rating than the employer's doctor assigned. A 5-point difference in rating can mean tens of thousands of dollars in PPD benefits.
Not every workers' compensation claim requires an attorney. Straightforward claims with a clear work injury, accepted by the employer, and a full recovery may settle without legal representation. However, an attorney is strongly recommended in these situations:
Your claim is denied. About 7% of workers' compensation claims are initially denied. Common reasons include the employer disputing that the injury happened at work, questioning pre-existing conditions, or challenging the severity. An attorney can appeal the denial and present evidence supporting your claim.
You have a permanent impairment rating. PPD settlements involve complex calculations and significant money. The employer's insurance company will try to minimize your rating and settlement. An attorney can arrange an independent medical examination and negotiate a higher settlement.
You are being pressured to return to work. Insurers sometimes push for early return-to-work, even with restrictions. An attorney protects your right to full recovery and appropriate light-duty accommodations.
Workers' compensation laws vary significantly by state. This calculator uses general formulas and state maximum benefit rates. Always consult a licensed workers' compensation attorney in your state for advice specific to your situation.
Sources: NASI Workers' Compensation Report , Bureau of Labor Statistics, state workers' compensation boards.