Benefits to Increase Nearly 5% in 2026

Total disability benefits will increase nearly 5% next year to match the rise in the state's average weekly wage, according to the California Workers' Compensation Institute. The average weekly wage grew to $1,789 in the first quarter of 2025, up 4.99% from $1,704 in the first quarter of 2024. As a result, the maximum temporary total disability benefit and permanent total disability benefit will increase $83.82 to $1,764.11 per week for injuries occurring on or after Jan. 1 from $1,680.28. Minimum TTD and PTD benefits will increase $12.58 to $264.61 from $252.03. Other benefits, in...