Wage Benefits

Wage Benefits After a Work Injury in Illinois
No one expects to be injured on the job—but workplace accidents happen every day. Whether you work in an office or a physically demanding environment like a factory or construction site, there's always a risk of sustaining an injury while performing your job duties.
 
Workers’ Compensation exists to protect employees in exactly these situations. This program is designed to help injured workers recover without suffering financial hardship. Workers’ Compensation benefits should cover medical expenses, a portion of lost wages, and other associated costs. Wage replacement is often a critical part of these benefits. You should not lose income simply because you were hurt while doing your job.
 
At Rathbun, Cservenyak & Kozol LLC, we are highly experienced in representing injured workers and helping them pursue the compensation they deserve. Our attorneys are well-versed in Illinois Workers’ Compensation law and can guide you through the process with confidence and care. By working with a qualified attorney, you improve your chances of receiving a full and fair award—and reduce the likelihood of facing a wrongful denial of your claim.
 
How Wage Benefits Work Under Workers’ Compensation
For many families, even a short interruption in income can be financially devastating. Workers’ Compensation is intended to soften that burden—but it does not fully replace your wages. In Illinois, injured employees are entitled to two-thirds of their average weekly wage while they are unable to work due to a job-related injury.
There is a cap on how much wage compensation can be paid, based on statewide average weekly wages. This cap changes annually and typically affects higher-income workers.
 
Wage Benefits and Long-Term Disability
In some cases, a workplace injury may lead to permanent physical limitations. If you are unable to return to your previous job, or if you must accept a lower-paying or part-time role due to your injury, you may be eligible for ongoing wage differential benefits. These benefits help cover the gap between what you used to earn and what you are now capable of earning.
 
If your injury is severe enough to leave you permanently and totally disabled, you may qualify for long-term wage benefits. In these cases, Workers’ Compensation should pay you two-thirds of your previous income indefinitely, in addition to covering medical expenses for ongoing or specialized care, such as home health assistance or long-term nursing care.
 
When Claims Are Denied
Unfortunately, some valid claims are wrongfully denied—especially when the injury is severe or permanent. Employers and insurers may dispute your eligibility in an attempt to avoid liability. If your claim has been denied or undervalued, you have the right to appeal through arbitration, and you should do so with experienced legal support.
 
At Rathbun, Cservenyak & Kozol LLC, we have a strong track record of fighting back against denied claims. We know the tactics employers and insurers may use, and we will represent your interests with dedication at every stage of the process.
 
Protecting Your Right to Wage Benefits
Your financial future shouldn't be jeopardized because you were hurt doing your job. Our team will work tirelessly to ensure you receive every benefit you’re entitled to under Illinois law—including the wage replacement you need to stay financially stable.

If you’ve been injured at work and need help understanding your rights, or if your claim has already been denied, we are ready to step in and help.