How Much Does Workers' Comp Pay?
Quick answer: While you can't work, workers' comp usually pays about two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a weekly maximum set by your state. In 2026 the cap is $1,764.11 in California, $1,358 in Florida, and $1,314 in Texas (which pays 70%). The money isn't subject to federal income tax.
Three numbers decide your check
- Your average weekly wage. Gross pay before the injury, including overtime. Texas, for example, averages the 13 weeks before the injury.
- The state's percentage. Two-thirds in California, Florida, and the federal system (three-fourths for federal workers with a dependent). Seventy percent in Texas, or 75% for the first 26 weeks if you earn under $10 an hour.
- The state's cap. Each state sets a weekly maximum, usually tied to the statewide average wage. Higher earners hit it fast.
Same worker, three states
A worker earning $1,200 a week who can't work at all:
| State | Rate | Weekly benefit | Per month (avg.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| California (2026) | 66⅔% | $800.00 | $3,466.67 |
| Florida (2026) | 66⅔% | $800.00 | $3,466.67 |
| Texas (FY2027) | 70% | $840.00 | $3,640.00 |
A high earner, three states
A worker earning $2,500 a week. Two-thirds would be $1,666.67, but the caps cut in:
| State | Uncapped | Weekly cap | Actual benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| California (2026) | $1,666.67 | $1,764.11 | $1,666.67 |
| Florida (2026) | $1,666.67 | $1,358.00 | $1,358.00 |
| Texas (FY2027) | $1,750.00 | $1,314.00 | $1,314.00 |
Why two-thirds feels like more
IRS Publication 525 lists workers' compensation for a job injury or illness as exempt from federal income tax. Your paycheck had federal tax, Social Security, and Medicare taken out; a workers' comp check doesn't have federal income tax taken out. So two-thirds of gross pay often lands closer to your old take-home pay than the percentage suggests.
Common questions
Does workers' comp pay for the first days I miss?
Usually not right away. California and federal workers wait 3 days, Florida 7 days, and Texas pays nothing for an injury that disables you less than a week. Each is paid back if you're out long enough. Details are on each state page.
What if I'm back at work but earning less?
Partial benefits make up part of the gap. California pays two-thirds of the weekly wage loss; Texas pays 70% of the difference. Florida uses its own partial disability formula.
Does workers' comp pay medical bills too?
Yes. Medical benefits are separate from the wage-loss payments on this page. In Texas, for example, the one-week waiting rule for income benefits doesn't affect medical benefits.
Sources
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Your claims administrator or carrier calculates your official benefit.