After a work-related injury or illness, you likely have countless questions and concerns. What kind of medical treatment will you need? Will you be able to return to work eventually? What kind of hoops do you need to jump through to get workers' compensation benefits?
However, the biggest and most important questions you may be asking yourself are, "How much money will I actually receive? Will the weekly checks be enough to live on or not?"
The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry explains the basics of what to expect. Essentially, if you are eligible for workers' compensation benefits, you will receive regular payments to help make up for the money you're losing by not being able to work like usual. These payments are called "wage-loss benefits."
How Wage-Loss Benefits Are Calculated
Typically, the payments equal approximately two-thirds of your average weekly wage. So, if you normally earn $600 a week at your job, you might receive around $400 a week in wage-loss benefits.
It's important to note that there is a limit or cap on such wage-loss benefits. As of January 1, 2016, the weekly maximum a person can receive is $978.00.
You should also be aware that your checks may be smaller if you are also receiving other types of compensation such as:
Workers' Comp Also Covers Medical Expenses, Which Can Save You Thousands
In addition to receiving checks to help cover your lost wages, you can expect to have all your injury-related medical bills covered. This includes prescription medications, and it may even include transportation expenses to and from medical appointments.
Of course, you won't actually see these medical benefits appearing in your bank account, because the medical providers will be paid directly by the workers' compensation insurance company. However, not having to pay out of pocket for care will allow you to spend the limited amount of money you do have on the other necessities of life - such as groceries and rent.
To learn more about what to expect from workers' compensation in Pennsylvania, feel free to contact an attorney skilled in this area of law.
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