By Ziv Shay | Updated April 2026
Death benefits provide financial support to the dependents of a worker who dies as a result of a work-related injury or illness. Benefits typically include weekly payments to the surviving spouse and dependent children, as well as a burial allowance. The weekly benefit is usually two-thirds of the deceased worker's average weekly wage.
Enter your employment and injury details below for an instant estimate of your workers' comp benefits.
Note: Workers' comp generally covers 100% of reasonable and necessary medical expenses. The medical coverage estimate shown reflects your entered expenses. Actual coverage may be higher if additional treatment is needed.
Surviving spouse, dependent children, or other qualifying dependents of a worker who died from a work-related injury or occupational disease. The death must be causally related to employment.
| State | Max Weekly | Comp Rate | Waiting Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $1,968 | 80% | 3 days |
| Illinois | $1,796 | 67% | 3 days |
| Massachusetts | $1,796 | 60% | 5 days |
| New Hampshire | $1,778 | 60% | 3 days |
| Washington D.C. | $1,648 | 67% | 3 days |
| California | $1,619 | 67% | 3 days |
| Connecticut | $1,573 | 75% | 3 days |
| Washington | $1,472 | 60% | 3 days |
| Alaska | $1,404 | 80% | 3 days |
| Vermont | $1,358 | 67% | 3 days |
Death Benefits benefits may continue for the lifetime of the injured worker or beneficiary, depending on state law. These benefits represent the most significant and long-lasting form of workers' compensation.
Many states impose maximum duration limits on certain benefit types. Check your state's specific rules using our calculator above or visit the state-specific page for details.
Required in most states. Compare workers-comp quotes for your business.
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