Pennsylvania workers' compensation uses a unique tiered formula to calculate weekly benefits. The tier system ensures lower-wage workers receive a higher percentage of their wages while capping benefits for higher earners. PA also has a specific scheduled loss system for permanent injuries.
1
State & Injury
Where & what type
2
Your Wages
Weekly earnings
3
Impairment
Body part & rating
Low Estimate
—
Mild / best case
—
Based on state formula
High Estimate
—
Severe / disputed
How This Was Calculated — Step by Step
State Formula| Step | Formula / Calculation | Result | Notes |
|---|
Pennsylvania Workers' Comp Formula Explained
Pennsylvania uses a tiered benefit formula under § 306(a). Your weekly benefit depends on where your Average Weekly Wage falls within four tiers. Higher earners receive a flat maximum; middle earners receive 66.67% of AWW; lower-middle earners receive a flat $697; lowest earners receive 90% of AWW.
PA § 306(a) Tiered Formula (2026):
Tier 1: AWW > $2,091.00 → $1,394.00/week (flat maximum)
Tier 2: $1,045.51–$2,091.00 → 66.67% of AWW
Tier 3: $774.44–$1,045.50 → $697.00/week (flat)
Tier 4: AWW ≤ $774.43 → 90% of AWW
Tier 1: AWW > $2,091.00 → $1,394.00/week (flat maximum)
Tier 2: $1,045.51–$2,091.00 → 66.67% of AWW
Tier 3: $774.44–$1,045.50 → $697.00/week (flat)
Tier 4: AWW ≤ $774.43 → 90% of AWW
Pennsylvania Body Part Schedule (Maximum Weeks)
| Body Part | Maximum Weeks | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Arm | 410 | Extremity |
| Hand | 335 | Extremity |
| Leg | 410 | Extremity |
| Foot | 250 | Extremity |
| Eye | 275 | Sensory |
| Thumb | 100 | Extremity |
| Index Finger | 50 | Extremity |
| Middle Finger | 40 | Extremity |
| Ring Finger | 40 | Extremity |
| Little Finger | 30 | Extremity |
| Big Toe | 40 | Extremity |
| Other Toe | 16 | Extremity |
How to Use This Calculator
- Select Pennsylvania from the state dropdown (already selected).
- Choose your injury type: TTD (lost wages while out), PPD (permanent impairment), or Both.
- Select your injured body part from the schedule dropdown.
- Enter your Average Weekly Wage (AWW) — your gross weekly pay before the injury.
- Enter your % Loss of Use as determined by your treating physician or IME.
- Select your case severity to adjust the estimate range.
- Click Calculate to see your estimate with the full math breakdown.
Average Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania formula at a $900/week AWW:
| Injury Scenario | Approximate Range | Key Variable |
|---|---|---|
| Short TTD (8 weeks, $900 AWW) | $4,500 – $6,500 | Tier 2: 66.67% of AWW |
| Medium TTD (26 weeks, $900 AWW) | $12,000 – $18,000 | Tier 2: 66.67% of AWW |
| Long TTD (52 weeks, $900 AWW) | $24,000 – $38,000 | Tier 2 + PPD negotiation |
| Specific loss (arm, 25% impairment) | $45,000 – $80,000 | 410 max scheduled weeks |
Frequently Asked Questions — Pennsylvania Workers' Comp
▶
How does Pennsylvania's tiered workers' comp formula work?
Pennsylvania uses four tiers. If your AWW exceeds $2,091.00, you receive the flat maximum of $1,394.00/week. If your AWW is between $1,045.51 and $2,091.00, you receive 66.67% of AWW. If your AWW is between $774.44 and $1,045.50, you receive a flat $697.00/week. If your AWW is $774.43 or less, you receive 90% of AWW.
▶
What is the maximum weekly benefit in Pennsylvania?
The maximum weekly benefit in Pennsylvania is $1,394.00 for 2026. This applies to workers whose average weekly wage exceeds $2,091.00.
▶
Why does Pennsylvania have a flat rate for middle earners?
Pennsylvania's Tier 3 flat rate of $697/week (which is exactly half the maximum) applies to workers whose AWW falls between $774.44 and $1,045.50. This creates a "floor" that protects these workers from receiving less than 2/3 of their wages through a minimum guarantee.
▶
How is average weekly wage calculated in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania calculates your average weekly wage based on your wages in the 52 weeks prior to your injury. This typically includes regular wages, overtime, and certain other compensation from your employer.
▶
Can Pennsylvania workers' comp benefits be reduced?
Yes. Pennsylvania law allows insurers to modify benefits after 104 weeks of total disability if you can earn wages in any job that exists in significant numbers in the region (not necessarily your former job). This is called an Earning Power Assessment.
▶
Does Pennsylvania have a schedule for specific body part injuries?
Yes. Pennsylvania has a scheduled loss system for specific injuries such as loss of a limb, finger, toe, or vision. These scheduled benefits are paid in addition to any period of total disability.
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.