Arizona workers compensation calculator - 2026

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Arizona workers compensation overview

The Industrial Commission of Arizona oversees the workers compensation system. Arizona requires employers to obtain workers compensation insurance or qualify as self-insured.

Arizona has no retroactive period - if you miss the 7-day waiting period you do not recover those days even if your disability is long-term. Arizona's maximum weekly benefit is among the highest in the country.

Governing statute

Arizona workers compensation is governed by the Arizona Revised Statutes Title 23, Chapter 6 (A.R.S. § 23-901 et seq.). This statute establishes the rights and obligations of employers, employees, and insurers in workplace injury cases.

The official authority for workers compensation in Arizona is the Industrial Commission of Arizona. For official information about your claim or to verify current benefit rates, visit the Industrial Commission of Arizona directly.

How Arizona calculates your weekly benefit

In Arizona, temporary total disability (TTD) benefits are calculated at 66.7% of your Average Weekly Wage (AWW), subject to the state maximum of $5,765 per week. Your AWW is typically calculated as your average weekly earnings over the 52 weeks immediately before your injury.

The maximum weekly benefit of $5,765 is updated annually by the Industrial Commission of Arizona based on changes in the state average weekly wage. The rate shown reflects the 2026 rate published in January 2026.

Data source: Industrial Commission of Arizona. Last verified: January 2026. This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Actual benefits depend on specific facts of your injury and claim. Consult a workers compensation attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.

What is workers compensation?

Workers compensation is a state-mandated insurance program that provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. Every state in the United States requires most employers to carry workers compensation insurance, though the specific requirements vary significantly by state. The program exists to provide injured workers with medical care and wage replacement benefits without requiring them to prove their employer was negligent - in exchange, workers generally give up their right to sue their employer for the injury.

Workers compensation covers a broad range of workplace injuries and illnesses, including acute injuries like falls, cuts, and machinery accidents, as well as repetitive stress injuries that develop over time like carpal tunnel syndrome or back problems caused by years of heavy lifting. Occupational diseases - illnesses caused by workplace exposure to chemicals, dust, or other hazards - are also generally covered. The key requirement is that the injury or illness arose out of and in the course of employment.

How are workers comp weekly benefits calculated?

Workers compensation weekly benefits are calculated based on your Average Weekly Wage (AWW) - typically your average earnings over the 52 weeks immediately preceding your injury. Most states pay temporary total disability (TTD) benefits at two-thirds (66.67%) of your AWW, though some states use different percentages ranging from 60% to 80%.

Every state sets a maximum weekly benefit amount that caps what you can receive regardless of how high your wages are. This maximum is typically tied to the state's average weekly wage and is updated annually. In high-wage states like Washington and California the maximum weekly benefit is significantly higher than in lower-wage states. In 2026, maximum weekly benefits range from around $700 per week in the lowest states to over $3,000 per week in states like Washington.

There is also typically a minimum weekly benefit that ensures even very low-wage workers receive meaningful benefits.

Types of workers compensation benefits

Temporary Total Disability (TTD) - Paid when you are completely unable to work due to your injury and your condition is expected to improve. This is the most common type of workers comp benefit and what our calculator estimates. Benefits continue until you return to work or reach maximum medical improvement.

Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) - Paid when you can return to work in a limited capacity but are earning less than before your injury. Benefits typically make up a portion of the difference between your pre-injury and post-injury wages.

Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) - Paid when your injury results in a permanent impairment but you can still work in some capacity. Benefits are typically based on the nature and extent of the permanent impairment, often rated as a percentage of total disability.

Medical benefits - Workers compensation pays for all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to your work injury, including doctor visits, surgery, physical therapy, prescription medications, and medical equipment. There is generally no deductible or copay for workers comp medical benefits.

Death benefits - Paid to surviving dependents when a work-related injury or illness results in death. Benefits typically include a weekly payment to the surviving spouse and dependent children, as well as burial expense reimbursement.

Waiting periods and retroactive benefits

Most states have a waiting period before workers comp wage replacement benefits begin. This means if you miss only a day or two of work you may not receive any wage replacement benefits, though your medical costs should still be covered. However, if your disability extends beyond a certain retroactive period, you may receive benefits retroactive to the first day of missed work. Our calculator shows the waiting period for each state.

How to file a workers comp claim

If you are injured at work, the most important steps are to report the injury to your employer immediately and seek medical attention. Most states have strict deadlines ranging from 30 days to a year for reporting a workplace injury - missing this deadline can jeopardize your entire claim. Your employer's workers compensation insurer will assign a claims adjuster who will investigate your claim and make decisions about coverage and benefits.

If your claim is denied or you believe your benefits have been incorrectly calculated, you have the right to appeal. Workers compensation disputes are handled by your state's workers compensation board or commission. Many injured workers find it helpful to consult with a workers compensation attorney, particularly for serious injuries or disputed claims. Most workers comp attorneys work on contingency - they only get paid if you win - so there is generally no upfront cost to getting legal advice.

The information above is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Workers compensation laws vary significantly by state and individual circumstances matter greatly. Consult a licensed workers compensation attorney in your state for advice specific to your situation.

Workers compensation weekly benefits are based on your Average Weekly Wage (AWW) - typically your total wages over the 52 weeks before your injury, divided by 52. Most states pay between 60% and 80% of your AWW, subject to a state-set maximum and minimum.

The formula most states use: Weekly Benefit = AWW × Replacement Rate, capped at the state maximum weekly benefit (SMWB).

For example, if your AWW is $1,200 and your state pays 66.7%, your weekly benefit would be $800 - unless the state maximum is lower, in which case you receive the maximum instead.