What workers' comp pays, when it starts, and how long it lasts

The short version

Workers' comp wage benefits are usually a share of your average weekly wage, capped at a maximum the state sets each year. In Florida, for example, temporary total disability is paid at 66 2/3 percent of the average weekly wage, within the state's limits (Florida Statutes s. 440.15(2)).

Most states also have a short waiting period before wage benefits begin. Florida does not pay compensation for the first 7 days of disability, unless the disability lasts more than 21 days, in which case it is paid from the start (s. 440.12(1)). Each guide in this set cites the rule for the state it describes.

What this guide set answers

• 01

  How much does workers' comp pay?

  The common formula, then a dated state table of published rates and maximums.

• 02

  Do you get paid while you are on workers' comp?

  How wage checks arrive, and what changes with light duty.

• 03

  Does workers' comp cover lost wages?

  Which wage-loss benefits exist, temporary total and temporary partial, and who qualifies.

• 04

  When does workers' comp start paying lost wages?

  Waiting periods and first-payment timing, state by state.

• 05

  How long does workers' comp last?

  Benefit limits by benefit type, cited to each state's statute.

• 06

  Is workers' compensation taxable?

  What the IRS says about workers' comp benefits. General information only.

Each answer is general information about how the system works. It is not legal advice, and reading it does not create a lawyer-client relationship. For your own claim, talk to a lawyer licensed in your state.