Florida Workers’ Compensation Pay Rates: Why Your Check May Be Lower Than Expected
After a work injury in Fort Lauderdale, you count on workers’ compensation to help replace your income. Injured workers often assume they will receive their full paycheck, only to realize that the Florida workers’ compensation program pays only a portion of lost wages, not the full amount.
If your check seems lower than expected, there’s usually a reason. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer explains how the state calculates workers’ compensation wages and how to spot potential problems with your benefits.
Factors That Influence Workers’ Compensation Wage Benefit Calculations in Florida
When on-the-job injuries in Fort Lauderdale happen, you may be entitled to wage replacement through the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation. The Florida Statutes provide a formula for calculating your average weekly income. In most cases, you receive about two-thirds of your prior earnings, subject to state limits. Your weekly benefit amount is based on:
- Your average weekly wage before the injury, including regular pay and routine overtime.
- A percentage of that wage, typically around 66 2/3 percent.
- State maximum benefit limits, which cap how much you can receive.
- Your work status, such as whether you are fully out of work or on light duty.
- Changes in earnings if you return to work with restrictions.
For example, if you earned $900 per week before your injury, your benefit may be around $600 per week, depending on the details of your claim. If you return to work with reduced hours, your benefits may be adjusted to reflect partial income.
Common Reasons South Florida Workers’ Comp Wage Benefits May Be Lower
Even when the formula is applied correctly, your Florida workers’ compensation wage benefits may still feel lower than expected. Common reasons for lower wage reimbursement amounts include:
- Your average weekly wage was calculated incorrectly.
- Wage calculations failed to include overtime or bonuses.
- You returned to work in a limited capacity, reducing benefits.
- Benefit caps limit the maximum amount you can receive.
- Delays or gaps in reporting your earnings or restrictions.
It’s also important to remember that workers’ compensation does not include the same deductions or structure as a regular paycheck. This difference can make the amount feel even smaller.
If something doesn’t seem right, it’s worth reviewing the amount and whether it includes all of your pre-injury income.
Worried You’re Getting Less Than You Deserve? Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
When on-the-job injuries in South Florida leave you unable to work, workers’ compensation wage benefits that are lower than expected can create frustration and real financial stress. Rather than guessing and continuing to worry whether your benefits are correct, get trusted legal help from our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer.
At The Law Offices of David M. Benenfeld, P.A., we help injured workers review wage calculations, address payment issues, and ensure benefit calculations are done properly. To request a consultation in our Sunrise, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach office, call or contact us online today.
Sources:
myfloridacfo.com/division/wc/home
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0440/0440.html