California Workers' Compensation Calculator

The statute of limitations for this type of claim in California is 1 year — shorter than the national average of 1.9 years. This compressed timeline means you need to consult an attorney and begin gathering evidence quickly.

California pays temporary total disability (TTD) benefits at 67% of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum of $1,619 per week. This maximum is above the national average of $1,243. TTD benefits in California are limited to 104 weeks (approximately 2.0 years).

California relies on the California's Permanent Disability Rating Schedule (PDRS) to assess permanent impairment. Your treating physician or an independent medical examiner assigns a whole-person impairment rating, which is then converted into a disability benefit amount. The specific guide version used in California can produce ratings that differ meaningfully from those in states using different editions.

California allows injured workers to choose their own treating physician for workers' compensation claims. In states without this right, the employer or insurer selects the doctor, which can affect both the quality of care and the impairment rating you receive.

Your first obligation after a workplace injury in California is to notify your employer within 30 days. This is not the same as filing a workers’ compensation claim — it’s a prerequisite. Even if you are unsure whether your injury is serious enough to require workers’ comp benefits, it is safer to report it within the 30-day window. Late notification is a common reason claims are disputed or denied.

California provides vocational rehabilitation benefits for injured workers who are unable to return to their previous job. These benefits may include job retraining, education assistance, resume preparation, job placement services, and maintenance allowances during the retraining period. If your workplace injury has permanently limited your ability to perform your previous occupation, vocational rehabilitation can help you transition to suitable alternative employment.