Workers’ Compensation Average Weekly Wage for Pennsylvania in 2017

Under the Workers’ Compensation Act, workers who are injured on the job are entitled to recover lost wages equal to two-thirds of their weekly wages. The Act also highlights the minimum and maximum adjustments with the benefit rate being set using the annual maximum that was in place when the injury occurred. This maximum is decided by the Department of Labor and Industry by calculating a maximum based on a state’s average weekly wage.

For the year of 2017 in Pennsylvania, the maximum weekly compensation rate for the calendar year is $995, which is a 1.7% increase from last year. This has been determined under the Workers’ Compensation Act, Section 105.1 and 105.2 by the Department of Labor & Industry. This new rate applies to injuries that were sustained on or after January 1, 2017.

This year, those whose average weekly wages are between $1,492.50 and $746.25 will be compensated for 66 2/3rds of their weekly wages. Workers who earn between $746.25 and $552.78 will receive a flat rate of $497.50 each week. For earnings under $552.77 each week, the injured worker will receive 90 percent of their average weekly wages.

Since Workers’ Compensation is the loss of one’s earning capacity, the benefits are not taxable unless under specific criteria, such as when someone is also receiving SSDI or SSI benefits. Unfortunately, wage increases an employee would typically receive are not factored into these benefits. This means those living off these benefits for an injury from years ago don’t have the same opportunity to negotiate their salary or have increased for cost of living raises.

Each case for Workers’ Compensation is unique. If you are starting a claim, contact us today. At Vanasse Law, we have an experienced legal team that can guide you through the process to ensure you get the most benefits possible to help your recovery.