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Pennsylvania Workers� Compensation

January 15th, 2007 Posted by Amelia

The maximum weekly benefit increases in 2007 for new unemployment claims, as well as new Pennsylvania workers’ compensation claims. Many unemployed Pennsylvanians, as well as those eligible for workers’ compensation, will receive more money beginning in January.

Due to improved employment trends, unemployment benefits will not be reduced by 2.3 percent as they have in recent years. Likewise, the maximum weekly compensation rate will increase for individuals who suffer a work-related injury in 2007.

“Pennsylvanians are experiencing a growing economy,” Governor Rendell said. “We have seen consistent, record-high job growth this year, and our unemployment rate is at a six-year low. These benefit increases will help ease the financial strain on those who may not be sharing that prosperity because they are unemployed, or injured and unable to work. At the same time, businesses will enjoy a decrease in their tax rates.

In addition, Pennsylvania employers will have their 2007 unemployment compensation taxes reduced by $158 million, as the average tax rate for employers is projected to be 5 percent, down from 5.4 percent in 2006.

“Tax savings and benefit increases in 2007 are the tangible results of the stronger economy we continue to build through strategic investments in workers, businesses and communities.”

Workers’ compensation benefits for people injured on the job are, generally, two-thirds of a workers wages at the time of injury, up to a weekly maximum set each year. The weekly workers’ compensation maximum will increase to $779 per week for workers injured on or after Jan. 1, 2007. The 2006 amount is $745.

Unemployment compensation payments for workers who lose jobs through no fault of their own are, generally, one-half of a worker’s former salary, up to a weekly maximum determined each year. As stipulated by law, the weekly unemployment compensation maximum will increase to $520 for new claimants qualifying for benefits after Jan. 1, 2007. The current amount is $497.