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 does workers’ comp last. This is completely normal because injury can prevent them from returning to their jobs. 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.
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 in the workforce. Please remember that every situation is different, so it is best to get a free consultation from an experienced attorney before making any decision.
How long can you be on workers’ comp in Michigan?
Employees who are hurt on-the-job in Michigan 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 in the labor market but 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 who 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 does Social Security retirement benefits impact workers’ comp?
Individuals can apply for Social Security retirement benefits starting at age 62. The insurance company is permitted to reduce benefits paid based upon 50% of what SSA pays monthly for retirement benefits.
This offset does not apply to Social Security disability 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.
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 a 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 were injured while on the job in Michigan and have questions about your workers’ comp claim, call us now, or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. Our attorneys are here for you.
Our attorneys have been exclusively helping injured workers in Michigan for more than 35 years. Our attorneys can help you better understand Michigan work injury laws and what happens after someone has been hurt on the job. 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.
Our law firm never charges a fee to evaluate a potential case. Our law firm has represented injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 35 years. Call (844) 316-8033 for a free consultation today.
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