When Does Workers Comp Start Paying Lost Wages?

On behalf of Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer

March 12, 2025


Suffering an injury at work is stressful enough without having to worry about lost income. If you're unable to work due to a job-related injury or illness, workers' compensation should cover your lost wages. But when does workers' comp start paying lost wages? Understanding the timeline and process can help you plan financially while recovering.

At Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer, we’ve helped countless injured workers secure the compensation they deserve. Below, we break down how workers' comp handles lost wages, when payments begin, and what you need to know about eligibility.

Does Workers Comp Cover Lost Wages?
Yes, workers’ compensation provides wage replacement benefits if you’re unable to work due to a work-related injury or illness. The exact amount you receive and when it starts depends on your state’s laws and your specific case. Generally, workers' comp covers a percentage of your pre-injury wages rather than your full paycheck.

How Much Does Workers Comp Pay for Lost Wages?
The amount you receive varies by state, but most states provide temporary total disability (TTD) benefits equal to about two-thirds (66.67%) of your average weekly wage (AWW), subject to state-imposed maximums.

For example:
  • In Missouri, the maximum TTD benefit for accidents occurring from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, is $1,228.04 per week.
  • In Illinois, the maximum weekly TTD benefit for accidents occurring from January 15, 2024, to July 14, 2024, is $1,897.92.
Your AWW is typically calculated based on your earnings in the 52 weeks before your injury. If you work seasonally or irregular hours, the calculation may be adjusted accordingly.

Exceptions:
  • If you can return to work in a light-duty role that pays less than your pre-injury job, you may qualify for temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits to cover part of the wage difference.
  • If your injury leads to permanent disability, you may receive permanent total disability (PTD) or permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits.

When Does Workers Comp Start Paying Lost Wages?
The timing of your first workers' comp payment depends on three key factors:
  1. Your state's waiting period
  2. How quickly you report your injury
  3. The speed of your employer and insurance company in processing your claim
1. State-Mandated Waiting Periods
Most states impose a waiting period before wage loss benefits kick in. This means you won't receive payment for the first few days of lost work unless your disability extends beyond a certain timeframe.
For example:
  • Missouri: 3-day waiting period. If you're off work for more than 14 days, you receive back pay for the first three days.
  • Illinois: 3-day waiting period, with retroactive pay if you're out for 14+ days.
2. Reporting Your Injury Quickly
To start receiving lost wage benefits as soon as possible, report your injury to your employer immediately. Many states require you to notify your employer within a specific time frame:
  • Missouri: 30 days
  • Illinois: 45 days
Failing to report on time can delay or even jeopardize your claim.

3. Claim Processing Times
Once your employer is notified, they must file a claim with their workers' comp insurance provider. The insurer then reviews the claim, which involves:
  • Confirming the injury is work-related
  • Reviewing medical records
  • Determining wage replacement eligibility
Typical payment timeline:
  • If your claim is approved, you should receive your first payment within 14–21 days from the date you reported your injury.
  • Payments continue on a weekly or biweekly basis.
  • If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal (more on that below).
What If Your Workers Comp Claim Is Delayed or Denied?
Workers’ comp insurance companies don’t always process claims quickly. If your benefits are delayed, you can take action:

Common Reasons for Payment Delays
  • The employer fails to file the claim promptly.
  • Insurance disputes whether your injury is work-related.
  • Lack of medical documentation.
  • Missed deadlines in reporting the injury.
What You Can Do
  • Follow up with your employer to confirm they filed the claim.
  • Keep detailed records of medical visits, missed workdays, and communications with the insurer.
  • Consult a workers’ compensation attorney if the insurance company is stalling or wrongfully denying benefits.
At Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer, we’ve successfully helped injured workers challenge unfair delays and denials. If you’re facing obstacles in getting paid, we can step in and fight for your rights.

How Long Do Workers Comp Benefits Last?
Wage replacement benefits last until you’re medically cleared to return to work or reach maximum medical improvement (MMI)—whichever comes first. MMI means your condition has stabilized and further recovery is unlikely.

Here’s a general breakdown:
  • Temporary Total Disability (TTD): Paid until you can return to work.
  • Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): Paid if you return to a lower-paying light-duty job.
  • Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): Paid if you have lasting impairments but can still work in some capacity.
  • Permanent Total Disability (PTD): Paid indefinitely if you cannot return to any type of work.
Your doctor’s evaluation plays a key role in determining when payments end. If you disagree with their assessment, you have the right to request an independent medical examination (IME).


Can You Work While Receiving Workers Comp Benefits?
It depends on your work restrictions. If your doctor approves light-duty work, you may return with modified tasks. However, if light-duty pays less than your pre-injury wages, workers’ comp may cover a portion of the difference.

Be honest about your work status. If you return to work while still collecting full wage replacement benefits, it could be considered fraud, leading to fines or loss of benefits.

Get Legal Help for Workers Comp Wage Loss Claims
If you're waiting too long for workers' comp to start paying lost wages, or if your claim has been unfairly denied, don't go it alone. Insurance companies don’t always play fair, but you have legal rights.

At Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer, we help injured workers secure the compensation they’re entitled to. Whether you're struggling with a delayed claim, a denied claim, or simply have questions about your benefits, our experienced attorneys are ready to assist.

📞 Call us today for a free consultation and let us help you get the financial support you need while recovering.