By Ziv Shay | Updated April 2026
Permanent total disability benefits are the most significant workers' compensation benefit, paid when a worker is permanently unable to return to any gainful employment. PTD benefits are typically paid for the lifetime of the worker at two-thirds of the average weekly wage. Some states provide additional cost-of-living adjustments.
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.
Worker must be permanently and totally unable to perform any type of gainful employment. Medical evidence must demonstrate that the disability is permanent and that no rehabilitation will restore work capacity.
| 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 |
Permanent Total Disability (PTD) 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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