NEW YORK STATE HIKES WORKERS’ COMPENSATION MINIMUM BENEFIT

Effective January 1, 2024, New York State has increased the minimum weekly benefit rate for workers’ compensation benefits.

As of the new year (2024), the minimum weekly benefit increased to $275 per week, a hike from the minimum weekly benefit that has been $150 per week since 2013.  If an injured worker’s regular wages are less than the minimum weekly benefit ($275), they will receive their full, regular wages.

The new legislation, signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul on September 6, 2023, also hikes the minimum weekly workers’ compensation benefit to $325 beginning on January 1, 2025.

In addition, further increases to the minimum weekly benefit will take effect on July 1, 2026, and on July 1^st in future years (starting in 2027), with the amount of the benefit increase calculated as 1/5 (20%) of the New York State Average Weekly Wage (“NYSAWW”) or the employee’s actual wages, whichever is less.

Lemire & Higgins, LLC represents injured workers!  If you, a family member or friend has been injured at work or has an existing New York Workers’ Compensation claim, contact our office at (518) 899-5700 for answers and solutions to your workers’ compensation issues.