Workers’ compensation is a vital safety net for injured employees. It ensures injured workers receive financial support and medical care during recovery. However, Ohioan workers may have some questions about workers’ compensation.

One of the most common questions injured workers in Ohio have is, “How much does workers’ comp pay in Ohio?” Understanding what benefits to expect after a work-related injury is critical to your peace of mind.

Ohio’s workers’ comp payment structure is based on several things: the type of injury, its severity, and the worker’s prior earnings. To understand how workers’ comp benefits in Ohio are calculated, it is helpful to have an overview of how the program works.

What Is Workers’ Compensation in Ohio?

Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system that pays benefits to employees who are injured or develop illnesses due to their jobs. This system ensures that workers receive medical care, wage replacement in Ohio, and other necessary support without proving employer negligence.

The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) manages Ohio’s workers’ compensation system. The Ohio BWC manages claims, distributes benefits, and ensures injured workers get the support they need. Ohio employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance to protect their employees.

Common Questions About Workers’ Comp Pay in Ohio

The amount of workers’ comp pay varies based on factors such as the worker’s average weekly wage, the severity of the injury, and their disability status (temporary or permanent).

If the injury doesn’t meet the criteria for compensation or a claim is denied, workers can:

• Seek alternative benefits, such as short-term disability insurance.
• Appeal the denial with the BWC or the Ohio Industrial Commission. These workers’ comp appeals can provide a second chance at securing benefits.

While workers can receive both benefits, workers’ comp payments may reduce the amount of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. Similarly, returning to work, even part-time, may affect your benefits. Wage loss benefits, for example, may be adjusted to account for your new earnings.

Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Ohio

Workers’ compensation benefits in Ohio include several key categories:

• Medical covers all medical expenses related to workplace injuries, including doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, prescription medications, and rehabilitation.
• Wage loss replaces a portion of lost income when an injury prevents a worker from returning to their job.
• Disability includes temporary total disability (TTD), permanent partial disability (PPD), and permanent total disability (PTD), depending on the severity and permanence of the injury. These disability benefits in Ohio aim to provide financial stability during recovery.
• Vocational rehabilitation offers job retraining, career counseling, and assistance in finding new employment for workers unable to return to their previous roles.
• Death provides financial support to surviving dependents in the event of a workplace fatality.

How Is Workers’ Compensation Pay Calculated in Ohio?

Wage replacement benefits, including temporary total disability (TTD), are calculated based on the injured worker’s average weekly wage (AWW) and full weekly wage (FWW). The latter is based on your wages six weeks prior to the date of your injury or one week prior to the date of your injury minus any overtime. Your first three months of TTD are based on 72% of your FWW (tax-free). On the other hand, your AWW is typically determined by the worker’s gross income over the 52 weeks before the injury.

After being off work for more than three months, workers receive 66% of their AWW, up to a cap set annually by the BWC. The maximum workers’ comp pay amount is updated annually. If you are able to return to work light duty but make less than 66% of your AWW, you may be entitled to a working wage loss for up to 200 weeks.

Permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits depend on the severity of the impairment. The BWC uses impairment ratings to determine the appropriate compensation. Payments are based on the extent of the disability and the worker’s pre-injury wages. Factors such as the percentage of permanent impairment and the worker’s earnings during the injury influence the benefit amount.

Permanent total disability (PTD) benefits are awarded to workers permanently unable to work. These benefits are calculated similarly to TTD benefits but are often based on a higher percentage of earnings. PTD benefits are typically paid for life.

Death benefits are provided to dependents of a deceased worker. The amount depends on the worker’s AWW and the number of eligible dependents. These benefits aim to provide financial stability to surviving family members.

How Long Do You Receive Workers’ Comp Benefits in Ohio?

The workers’ comp benefit duration depends on the type of benefit:

• Temporary total disability (TTD) is paid up until you have been found to be MMI (maximum medically improved) or are released back to work on full duty. MMI means that you may still have restrictions, but it has been determined that your injury has stabilized.
• Permanent partial disability (PPD) is paid for a set duration based on the impairment rating.
• Permanent total disability (PTD) continues for the worker’s lifetime.

How to Maximize Your Workers’ Comp Benefits in Ohio

Maximizing your workers’ comp benefits can help ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. By understanding the Ohio workers’ comp claims process and knowing your rights, you can avoid common pitfalls that might reduce your benefits. Here are some key steps to take:

• File your claim on time. Timely filing is crucial to avoid delays or denial of benefits. Workers should report injuries to their employer immediately and file a claim with the BWC immediately.
• Keep detailed records of your injury and treatment. Documenting medical treatments, doctor visits, and related expenses can strengthen your claim and help avoid disputes.
• Consult a workers’ compensation lawyer. Hiring an experienced Cleveland workers’ comp attorney can help ensure proper claim filing, appeal denied claims, and secure the maximum benefits.

What to Do If Your Workers’ Comp Benefits Are Denied or Reduced in Ohio

Denial or reduction of workers’ comp benefits can be a frustrating experience, but you have options to challenge these decisions. Understanding the reasons behind a denial and knowing how to appeal can significantly affect the outcome. If your claim is denied or benefits are reduced, take the following steps:

• Understand the reasons for the denial. Common reasons include missed filing deadlines, insufficient medical evidence, or disputes over whether the injury is work-related.
• Appeal the decision. File an appeal with the Ohio Industrial Commission (OIC). Provide additional evidence, such as medical records or witness statements, and attend the hearing to present your case.

Why You Should Consult a Workers’ Compensation Attorney in Ohio

Navigating the workers’ compensation system can be complex, especially if your claim involves disputes or permanent disabilities. A skilled lawyer can provide invaluable support and guidance and also do the following:

• Help navigate complex legal processes.
• Ensure accurate claim filings.
• Negotiate settlements on your behalf.
• Advocate for higher benefits, especially in cases involving permanent disabilities or complex medical issues.

Contact George Mineff, Jr., Attorney at Law, for Help with Your Workers’ Comp Claim

If you’ve been injured at work and want to understand how much workers’ comp pays in Ohio, George Mineff, Jr., Attorney at Law, provides professional guidance. Call us at (216) 621-3930 to secure the benefits you deserve.