Quick Answer
Complete guide to Michigan workers' compensation including filing with WDAC, benefit calculations, and navigating Michigan's workers' comp system.
Michigan workers' compensation provides medical treatment and wage replacement for injured workers, administered by the Workers' Disability Compensation Agency (WDAC). If you've been injured at work in Michigan, you're entitled to no-fault benefits.
Michigan offers wage replacement at 80% of after-tax wages (higher rate than most states), comprehensive medical coverage, and substantial permanent disability awards. Understanding Michigan workers' comp laws maximizes your benefits.
Quick Facts: Michigan Workers' Compensation
| Topic | Michigan Law | Most States |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | 3+ regularly employed OR 1+ for 35+ hours/week | Varies (1-4+) |
| Temporary Disability | 80% of after-tax average weekly wage | 60-70% of gross |
| Maximum Weekly (2026) | Approx. $1,100/week | Varies |
| Filing Deadline | 2 years from injury | 1-3 years |
| State Agency | Workers' Disability Compensation Agency (WDAC) | Varies |
| Calculation | After-tax wages (unique) | Gross wages |
Who Is Covered
Employer threshold:
- 3+ employees regularly at one time, OR
- 1+ employee for 35+ hours/week for 13+ weeks
Covered: Full-time, part-time, seasonal workers
Exemptions: Independent contractors, casual labor, domestic servants, agricultural workers (some), sole proprietors
Benefits Available
Medical Benefits
Coverage: All reasonable and necessary medical treatment
No cost: No deductibles or co-pays
Includes: Emergency care, doctors, hospital stays, surgery, prescriptions, therapy, equipment
Doctor selection: Employee chooses physician
Wage Loss Benefits
Unique calculation: 80% of after-tax average weekly wage (instead of gross like most states)
Maximum (2026): Approximately $1,100/week
Waiting period: 7 days (retroactive after 2 weeks)
Duration: Until able to return to work
Specific Loss Benefits
Scheduled injuries: Fixed weeks for body parts
- Arm: 500 weeks
- Leg: 500 weeks
- Hand: 400 weeks
- Foot: 315 weeks
- Eye: 325 weeks
Payment: 80% of after-tax AWW
Permanent Disability
Non-scheduled injuries: Based on impairment rating and wage-earning capacity
Total and Permanent: 80% of after-tax AWW for life
Death Benefits
Burial: Up to $6,000
Dependency: Benefits to surviving spouse and children
Filing Process
Step 1: Report injury to employer within 90 days
Step 2: Choose physician for treatment
Step 3: Employer files First Report with WDAC
Step 4: If denied, file Application for Mediation or Hearing
Deadline: 2 years from injury
Learn more: How to File a Michigan Workers' Comp Claim
Michigan Workers' Disability Compensation Agency
Website: www.michigan.gov/wca
Services: File claims, mediation, hearings
Phone: (888) 396-5041
Covered Injuries
- Work-related accidents
- Occupational diseases
- Repetitive trauma
- Aggravation of pre-existing conditions
Not covered: Willful misconduct, intoxication, self-inflicted injuries
Learn more: Covered Injuries in Michigan Workers' Comp
Retaliation Protections
Michigan law prohibits discharge for filing workers' comp claims.
Remedies: Reinstatement, back pay
Learn more: Michigan Workers' Comp Retaliation
FAQs
Q: How much will I receive? A: 80% of after-tax average weekly wage, up to approximately $1,100/week.
Q: Can I choose my doctor? A: Yes, employee chooses physician.
Q: How long to file? A: 2 years from injury.
Q: Can I be fired? A: No. Michigan prohibits retaliation.
Q: Need a lawyer? A: Consider one for denied claims or permanent disability.
Related Michigan Topics
Legal Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about Michigan workers' compensation laws. It is not legal advice. Consult a qualified Michigan workers' compensation attorney.
Last updated: January 5, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Is Covered?
What is medical Benefits?
What is wage Loss Benefits?
What is specific Loss Benefits?
What is permanent Disability?
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