L&I Announces 5% COLA Increase in Benefits

Monday, July 9, 2018 | 0

Time-loss and pension benefits will increase by 5% for most workers who were injured before July 1, 2017, due to a change in the state’s average wage, the Department of Labor & Industries announced Friday.

The cost-of-living adjustment increases the maximum monthly benefit, to $6,188.70, which is 120% of the state’s average monthly wage as determined by the Employment Security Department. The adjustment is required by state law.

The increase also applies to pension benefits paid to dependents of workers killed by workplace accidents. 

The increase is effective July 1 for most workers, but might not apply to claimants who also receive Social Security benefits. Workers who were injured after July 1 will not receive a cost-of-living adjustment until July 1, 2019.