New York State Workers’ Compensation Minimum to Increase Significantly Over the Next 3 Years

September 27, 2023

Over the last decade, the New York State weekly Workers’ Compensation minimum has remained stagnant. To quantify, it’s been a minimum of $150.00 per week since May 1, 2013. While the maximum per week rate has increased annually since 2008, the same cannot be said about the minimum per week rate, as it’s been stuck in place for 10 years.

But significant change is on the horizon, and a gradual increase will be rolled out in phases over the next three years. On September 6, 2023, New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed a bill that will raise the weekly Workers’ Comp minimum from $150.00 to $275.00 starting January 1, 2024. Then, in 2025, the minimum will increase again to $325.00 per week. And in 2026, it will be set at one-fifth of New York State’s average weekly wage.

This translates into an initial 83.33% increase, marking a considerable improvement for individuals who receive Workers’ Compensation. “In addition to providing a much-needed increase in Work Comp benefits, the indexing minimum benefits to the average wage will result in ‘injured workers being treated more fairly moving forward,’” explains Mario Cilento, president of the New York State AFL-CIO. This overhaul marks a new era to support the state’s workforce — a change that will be greatly beneficial, especially with the rising cost of living.

For that reason, it’s more important than ever to get the benefits you’re owed if you’ve been injured on the job. However, given the complexities that come with receiving Workers’ Comp and the questions that often arise along the way, it’s helpful to partner with a professional legal team.

If you’re seeking help with Workers’ Compensation in New York State, reach out to the attorneys at Zea Proukou. Our team has over 50 years of combined experience in Workers’ Comp litigation and will assist you in accessing the benefits that you are entitled to.

You can reach us by phone at our Rochester office at 585-423-9444 or our Canandaigua office at 315-853-9444. Or you can contact us through our secure online contact page.