Updated July 2, 2026
Workers' compensation pays benefits when you are hurt on the job. The amounts, caps, and rules vary by state, sometimes substantially. This guide covers the framework. It is general information, not legal advice.
What workers' comp covers
Workers' comp generally pays for medical treatment and a portion of lost wages for a work-related injury, regardless of fault. The tradeoff is exclusivity: accepting workers' comp typically bars you from suing the employer directly for the injury. The Workers Comp Settlement Calculator estimates a settlement range based on your injury and wage.
Wage-replacement benefits
Lost-wage benefits are typically two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a state maximum. Because the cap does not scale with income, a worker earning twice the state average weekly wage does not receive twice the benefit. The Lost Wages Calculator estimates your TTD pay. The Weekly Benefit Calculator finds your actual weekly rate after caps.
Disability ratings
When an injury causes lasting impairment, a physician assigns a disability rating as a percentage. That percentage drives the permanent-disability calculation. The Disability Rating Payout Calculator converts a rating into an estimated award. Ratings are disputed often because each point in the percentage has a dollar value.
How claims resolve
A claim can stay open with ongoing benefits, or close via a lump-sum settlement that trades future benefits for a single payment. A settlement ends the claim on its terms. The decision between a certain payment now and open-ended coverage later is consequential, and generally worth an attorney's time.
Important caveats
Each state runs its own workers' comp system with different benefit rates, caps, injury schedules, and procedures. Reporting deadlines are strict, and missing one can bar a claim entirely. These calculators produce general estimates. Verify your state's current rules with a licensed workers' comp attorney before relying on any figure.
All calculators on this site
- Workers Comp Settlement Calculator: estimates a PPD settlement from injury type, impairment rating, and wage.
- Lost Wages Calculator: calculates temporary total disability pay for the weeks you are off work.
- Weekly Benefit Calculator: finds your weekly comp rate based on average weekly wage and state caps.
- Disability Rating Payout Calculator: converts a permanent impairment rating into an estimated award value.
Frequently asked questions
What does workers' comp cover?
Medical care and a portion of lost wages for a work-related injury, paid regardless of fault. Accepting workers' comp typically means giving up the right to sue the employer directly.
How much are lost-wage benefits?
Typically two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a state maximum. The cap means higher earners receive a smaller effective percentage of their income.
What is a disability rating?
A physician's estimate of permanent impairment, expressed as a percentage. It determines the number of PPD benefit weeks and, in turn, the settlement value of a PPD claim.
Should I take a lump-sum settlement?
That depends on your age, ongoing treatment needs, and the dollars on the table. A lump sum trades future benefits for a certain payment. Most claimants consult an attorney before deciding.
Is this legal advice?
No. Workers' comp rules vary by state and every claim has its own facts. Use these tools as a starting point, then consult a licensed workers' comp attorney.