Pennsylvania has increased the average weekly wage benefit for work injuries by 6.6%. For all qualifying on-the-job injuries that occurred on or after January 1, 2022, the maximum weekly benefit is now $1,205. Adjustments like these are made to account for cost of living increases in the United States.
What does this mean, exactly?
When a worker is injured, they are entitled to workers’ compensation on a no-fault basis. As long as their injury occurred in the course of their employment, they should be entitled to medical treatment and indemnity (wage-loss) benefits regardless of who was at fault. Wage-loss benefits are equal to two-thirds of the worker’s weekly wages, with minimum and maximum adjustments enforced. The average weekly wage benefit, which is determined by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, represents the maximum amount that an injured worker can receive for lost wages.
Payment Schedules for Weekly Workers’ Comp Benefits in 2022
Although a worker should be entitled to two-thirds of their average weekly wage if they are injured and unable to work, payment schedules are in place to account for varying earnings.
As of 2022, the schedules for weekly wage benefits in Pennsylvania are:
- If a worker earns $1,807.50 or more per week, they are entitled to $1,205.00 per week.
- If a worker earns $903.76 to $1,807.50 per week, they are entitled to 66 2/3% of their wages.
- If a worker earns $669.44 to $903.75 per week, they are entitled to $602.50 per week.
- If a worker earns $669.43 or less, they are entitled to 90% of their wages.
Will This Change Affect My Current Benefits?
If you are already receiving workers’ compensation for an injury that occurred in 2021 or earlier, this increase will most likely not apply to your benefits. It applies to injuries occurring on or after January 1, 2022. If you have any questions about your workers’ comp claim, payments, or any issue related to a work injury, you should ask your attorney for insight.
Ask a Pennsylvania Workers’ Comp Lawyer
Workers’ compensation is complicated, and recovering the benefits you deserve can be anything but easy. At Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC, we are here to guide you through the process of filing a claim and seeking the treatment and support that’s rightfully yours. Our experience with work injury cases in Pennsylvania is unparalleled, as our firm has been serving clients throughout the commonwealth for the past 100 years. Our team also includes Attorney Jeff Watson, who is a board-certified specialist in workers’ compensation law by the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s Workers’ Compensation Law section.
For the level of counsel you need, call (888) 498-3023. We look forward to seeing how we can help.