Michigan lawyer explains how long a person can be on workman’s comp and discusses potential offsets.
Many of our Michigan clients want to know how long workers’ comp lasts. This is a completely normal question because an injury can prevent them from returning to their jobs in the long term. Having a plan in place is the key to getting back on their feet. Retirement is supposed to be a reward for a lifetime of hard work, but it often turns into a financial necessity. Here is some information about potential offsets based upon age and retirement. Always consult an experienced attorney before making decisions about settlement or retirement.
How long does workers’ comp last in Michigan?
In Michigan, workers’ comp medical treatment continues for a person’s lifetime. Wage loss benefits are paid so long as a person continues to be disabled and actively looking for work. Please remember that every situation is unique, so it is best to get a free consultation from an experienced attorney before making any decision.
Many disabled employees trade future work injury benefits for a settlement. Insurance companies look at how much additional medical treatment is needed or how long a person must remain off work to calculate this figure. Never settle a claim without understanding legal rights!
How long can you be on workers’ comp in Michigan?
In Michigan, employees who are hurt on the job can be on workers’ comp for life. There is no time limit for medical treatment provided it is reasonable, necessary, and related. Wage loss benefits continue so long as a person remains disabled and in the labor market. Payments can be subject to various offsets based upon age or retirement.
What happens when a person turns age 65?
Insurance companies can reduce workman’s comp by 5% each year beginning at age 65. This offset grows until it reaches a maximum of 50% at age 75. Workman’s comp should not be reduced further, so be cautious of insurance companies that try to double dip using some other method.
We recommend trying to settle a work injury claim case before the age 65 offset is applied. Insurance companies look at their exposure when calculating how much to offer. Sometimes they will overpay without noticing.
How do Social Security retirement benefits impact my workers’ comp claim?
Individuals can apply for Social Security retirement benefits starting at age 62. The insurance company is permitted to reduce workers’ comp based upon 50% of what SSA pays monthly for retirement benefits.
Individuals who were already getting Social Security retirement benefits when they got hurt cannot have their benefits reduced by more than 50% of the amount otherwise payable.
Insurance companies cannot reduce based upon Social Security retirement benefits if they already are using the age 65 offset. However, they can switch between the two offsets depending upon their calculations.
This offset does not apply to Social Security disability benefits.
Why is a good-faith job search important?
A person who quits their job or voluntarily retires is considered to have removed themselves from the labor market. This means workman’s comp can be stopped by the insurance company. A good-faith job search is essential to show that a person remains in the labor market and entitled to benefits.
Benefits should be paid for as long as a person’s wage loss is directly attributed to the workplace accident. We do not recommend making any changes to employment status until a settlement has been reached.
Injured while on the job in Michigan? Contact our lawyers now.
If you suffered an injury while on the job in Michigan and are wondering how long your workers’ comp benefits will last, call now (855) 221-2667 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation with an experienced work injury lawyer. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. We’re here for you.
For more than 40 years, our lawyers have been helping people like you who have suffered from on-the-job injuries in Michigan. We understand the physical, emotional, and psychological hardships you are experiencing from your accident. We also have the skill, experience, and know-how to protect you and get you the best possible payout amount for your case.
To see what our own clients have to say about the caring, compassion, and communication they received from us, you can read in their own words about their experience here on our testimonials page from clients we have helped.
Remember, every work injury claim and settlement is different and must be negotiated on its own merits. Do not accept any payout amount without fully understanding your legal rights.
Our attorneys never charge a fee to evaluate a potential case. Our law firm has represented injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 40 years. Call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation today.
Related information:
Can I Sue My Employer For Pain And Suffering Damages In Michigan?
