California Workers Comp Settlement Chart: How Much Does Workers’ Comp Pay?

BY RENE MUNOZ

When you suffer an injury at work, one of the first questions you might ask is, How much is my workers’ comp case worth? Understanding the potential value of your workers’ compensation settlement can help you make informed decisions. This guide will explain the key factors affecting your claim, the two primary ways to settle your case, and how the California workers comp settlement chart plays a role in determining your payout.

How Much Does Workers’ Comp Pay in California?

The value of a workers’ comp claim depends on several factors, including:

1. Medical Expenses: Covers hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and any necessary treatments for recovery.
2. Lost Wages & Disability Payments: Workers’ comp pays for lost wages through temporary disability benefits and permanent disability benefits based on your permanent disability rating.
3. Future Medical Costs: If ongoing treatment is needed, settlement negotiations must account for these future medical expenses.
4. Vocational Rehabilitation: If you cannot return to your old job, you may qualify for Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits.

Workers’ Comp Settlement Options in California

There are two primary ways to settle a workers’ comp case:

1. Compromise and Release (C&R)

This option provides a lump-sum settlement in exchange for closing your case permanently.

• Pros: Quick payout, no ongoing negotiations.
• Cons: You waive your right to future medical treatment under workers’ comp.

2. Stipulated Findings and Award (SFA)

In an SFA settlement, you receive structured payments and keep your right to future medical care.

• Pros: Ongoing medical coverage, structured disability payments.
• Cons: No lump sum, payments are spread over time.

California Workers Comp Settlement Chart (2024)

The workers’ comp settlement chart determines payout amounts based on your permanent disability rating and average weekly wage (SAWW). Below is an excerpt:

Key Considerations for Your Settlement

When negotiating your workers’ comp settlement amount, consider:

• Severity of Injury: Higher disability ratings typically lead to larger settlements.
• Future Medical Needs: If ongoing care is required, an SFA may be a better option.
• Average Weekly Wage (SAWW): Your pre-injury earnings impact your disability benefits.
• Dependents & Death Benefits: If an injured worker dies, their family may receive partial dependents’ compensation.

FAQs: California Workers’ Compensation Settlement

How long does it take to get a workers’ comp settlement in California?

Settlements can take several months to over a year depending on case complexity, medical evaluations, and negotiations.

What is the maximum payout for permanent disability?

The maximum payout for permanent disability in California varies based on your rating and the California workers comp settlement chart.

Can I negotiate my settlement amount?

Yes. An experienced workers’ comp attorney can help negotiate a higher payout and ensure future medical costs are considered.

Get Help With Your Workers’ Comp Settlement

Understanding how much your workers’ comp case is worth is critical to ensuring you receive the right benefits. At Franco Muñoz Law Firm, our attorneys help injured workers maximize their settlements and navigate California’s workers’ compensation laws.

Call us at (510) 257-4141 for a free consultation.
We’ll help you secure the best possible outcome for your case.

For more information, visit Rene Munoz’s bio and explore our workers’ compensation resources.