California has one of the most complex workers' compensation systems in the nation. Permanent disability is determined using Whole Person Impairment ratings from the AMA Guides, adjusted for your occupation and age. California also has strict minimums and maximums for temporary disability benefits.
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State & Injury
Where & what type
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Your Wages
Weekly earnings
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Impairment
Body part & rating
Low Estimate
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Mild / best case
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Based on state formula
High Estimate
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Severe / disputed
How This Was Calculated — Step by Step
State Formula| Step | Formula / Calculation | Result | Notes |
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California Workers' Comp Formula Explained
California uses a Whole Person Impairment (WPI) rating system under the AMA Guides. The WPI rating is adjusted by an occupational modifier and age modifier, then converted to a Permanent Disability (PD) percentage. The PD percentage determines the number of weeks of PD benefits at $290/week.
CA Permanent Disability Formula:
1. WPI rating (from AMA Guides 5th Ed.)
2. WPI × 1.4 adjustment (Labor Code § 4660)
3. × Occupational modifier (based on job/body part)
4. → PD % → PDRS weeks table
5. × $290/week PD rate
1. WPI rating (from AMA Guides 5th Ed.)
2. WPI × 1.4 adjustment (Labor Code § 4660)
3. × Occupational modifier (based on job/body part)
4. → PD % → PDRS weeks table
5. × $290/week PD rate
How to Use This Calculator
- Select California from the state dropdown (already selected).
- Choose your injury type: TTD (lost wages while out), PPD (permanent impairment), or Both.
- Enter your Average Weekly Wage (AWW) — your gross weekly pay before the injury.
- Enter your impairment rating as determined by your evaluating physician.
- Select your case severity to adjust the estimate range.
- Click Calculate to see your estimate with the full math breakdown.
Average California Workers' Comp Settlement Ranges
Settlement amounts vary significantly based on injury severity, body part, AWW, and the specific facts of each case. The ranges below are illustrative based on the California formula at a $900/week AWW:
| Injury Scenario | Approximate Range | Key Variable |
|---|---|---|
| Low WPI (5–10%) | $5,000 – $15,000 | 15–30 PD weeks |
| Moderate WPI (20–30%) | $20,000 – $55,000 | 71–126 PD weeks |
| High WPI (40–50%) | $55,000 – $120,000 | 193–283 PD weeks |
| Catastrophic (70%+ WPI) | $175,000 – $320,000+ | 591+ PD weeks |
Frequently Asked Questions — California Workers' Comp
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How is California permanent disability calculated?
California PD starts with a Whole Person Impairment (WPI) rating from the AMA Guides. This is multiplied by 1.4 (for most post-2013 injuries), adjusted by an occupational modifier based on your job's physical demands, then converted to a PD percentage which determines weeks of benefits at $290/week.
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What is the maximum weekly TTD benefit in California?
The maximum weekly temporary total disability (TTD) benefit in California is $1,764.11. The minimum is $264.61. These rates are updated annually.
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How long can I receive TTD benefits in California?
In most cases, California limits TTD to 104 weeks (2 years) within 5 years of your injury date. Workers with certain serious injuries (including severe burns, high-level spinal cord injuries, and others) may receive up to 240 weeks.
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What is a QME in California workers' comp?
A Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) is a physician certified by the state to perform independent medical evaluations in disputed workers' comp cases. If your treating doctor and the insurance company disagree, a QME's rating often determines your final permanent disability percentage.
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How does the occupational modifier affect California PD?
California applies an occupational modifier (also called a "FEC rank" adjustment) based on your occupation's physical demands relative to your impairment. Jobs with higher physical demands result in a higher modifier, increasing your PD percentage and award.
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Can I get a lump sum settlement for California permanent disability?
Yes. California allows Compromise and Release (C&R) settlements where you receive a lump sum in exchange for closing your claim. Alternatively, a Stipulation with Request for Award sets your PD rating but keeps future medical treatment open. Most workers choose C&R for significant injuries.
Legal Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only and
does not constitute legal advice. Workers' compensation law is complex and varies by state, employer, and
individual circumstances. Consult a licensed workers' compensation attorney for advice specific to your
situation.