Illinois Workers Compensation Benefits

Complete guide to workers comp benefits, filing deadlines, and rules in Illinois (IL).

Max Weekly Benefit

$1,796

Benefit Duration

Until maximum medical improvement or wage differential

Waiting Period

3 days (retroactive after 14 days)

Filing Deadline

3 years from date of injury

Average Settlement

$25,000 – $65,000

State Fund Available

No

Key Facts About Illinois Workers Comp

  • All employers must carry workers comp coverage
  • Benefits are 66⅔% of average weekly wage
  • Illinois has some of the highest max weekly benefit rates nationally
  • Workers can choose their own treating physician
  • Wage differential benefits available for permanent partial disability

Common Industries in Illinois

Workers in these Illinois industries file the most workers compensation claims:

ManufacturingAgricultureFinanceHealthcareTransportation

How to File a Workers Comp Claim in Illinois

  1. Report your injury to your employer as soon as possible. Illinois requires prompt written notice.
  2. Seek medical treatment from an authorized provider. Your employer or their insurer may have specific physician requirements.
  3. File your claim with Illinois's workers compensation board before the deadline: 3 years from date of injury.
  4. Follow your treatment plan and keep records of all medical visits, expenses, and time missed from work.

Estimate Your Illinois Benefits

Use our free calculator to estimate your weekly benefit amount based onIllinois's rates.

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