How is the Amount of the Workers’ Compensation Check Calculated?

How much you get paid as weekly workers’ compensation is extremely important. You obviously depend on this check to pay your bills, especially when you are injured and out of work due to a workplace accident or illness. No wonder you want to ensure the insurance company is paying you correctly.

HOW DOES THE WORKERS COMPENSATION INSURANCE COMPANY CALCULATE MY WEEKLY CHECK AMOUNT?

While there are different types of weekly workers’ compensation benefits, the most common calculation is based on your earnings for 3 months before the date of injury. An average of these earnings determines your average weekly wage. This weekly wage will determine your workers’ compensation check.

WILL THE INSURANCE COMPANY CONSIDER ALL MY EARNINGS?

The insurance company considers everything that can be classified as earnings. So, your average weekly wage is calculated on the basis of your earnings before taxes. Tips and any other financial benefits are considered too.

WILL THE INSURANCE COMPANY PAY MY AVERAGE WEEKLY WAGE FULLY?

No.  In most cases, the insurance company only pays 2/3^rd of your average weekly wages. For instance, your weekly check would be $200 if your average weekly wage is $300, in case of temporary total disability benefits.

CAN I HAVE THE INSURANCE COMPANY’S CALCULATION CHANGED IF I BELIEVE IT TO BE INCORRECT?

Yes, you can. An easy way is for you or your attorney to contact the insurance company and try to get them to agree to change your check amount. If the insurance company agrees, they would file paperwork to change the check amount. When a change is made, they should issue you backpay too, to make up for the past incorrect checks.

If the insurance company does not agree to change the check amount, you may have to request a hearing in front of a workers’ compensation judge. At the hearing, you or your attorney needs to prove why the check amount should be changed. The judge can issue an award to determine the correct amount of the workers’ compensation check.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I NEED HELP?

It is a good idea to consult an attorney about your workers’ compensation case. Arizona Law Injury Group FREE consultation in workers’ compensation cases so that you can get answers without having to worry about the cost.

To consult an experienced workers compensation attorney in Phoenix, Arizona, call Arizona Injury Law Group at 602-346-9009. At Arizona Injury Law Group, you deal directly with Phoenix workers compensation lawyers and not assistants. Arizona Injury Law Group PLLC offers workers’ compensation legal services, helps injured workers seek benefits and justice and a voice standing up for you!