Every October 1, Minnesota updates the numbers that control how much injured workers can receive in wage loss benefits. For 2026, those numbers went up. If you were hurt on the job, or you are already getting workers’ compensation checks, here is what the change means for you.
The New Statewide Average Weekly Wage
The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) reports that the statewide average weekly wage (SAWW) effective October 1, 2026, is $1,476. That is a 3.72% increase from the prior figure of $1,423. The SAWW is calculated from state payroll and employment data. It matters because Minnesota law ties several key benefit limits to it.
The New Maximum and Minimum Weekly Benefits
For injuries producing temporary total disability, compensation is 66-2/3 percent of the weekly wage at the time of injury, and since October 1, 2024, the maximum weekly compensation payable is 108 percent of the statewide average weekly wage.
For dates of injury on or after October 1, 2026, the maximum compensation rate is $1,594.08 and the minimum compensation rate is $318.82. The minimum is 20 percent of the maximum, or your actual weekly wage if that is lower.
In plain terms:
- If you earned $1,200 per week before your injury, your temporary total disability (TTD) rate is about $800 per week.
- To reach the new maximum of $1,594.08, you would need an average weekly wage of about $2,391.
- Workers who earned very little are protected by the minimum rate.
Your Date of Injury Controls Your Maximum
Many people misunderstand this point. The maximum and minimum that apply to you are generally set by the rates in effect on your date of injury, not the date you receive a check. If you were hurt in 2024, the 2026 maximum does not replace your rate. Those earlier injuries may still benefit from annual cost-of-living adjustments.
Annual Cost-of-Living Adjustments
The change in the SAWW is the basis for annual benefit adjustments under Minn. Stat. § 176.645. Workers receiving ongoing benefits may see their weekly rate rise. The law limits these adjustments. Annual benefit increases for workers injured on or after Oct. 1, 2013, are limited to a maximum 3% increase. There is also a statutory waiting period before the first adjustment applies.
Insurance companies sometimes miss these adjustments. If you have been on benefits for several years and your check has never gone up, it is worth having an attorney review your file.
Other Changes Effective October 1, 2026
DLI’s COMPACT newsletter also reported:
- The maximum hourly rate for qualified rehabilitation consultants (QRCs) rose 3% to $133.88.
- Medical fee schedule conversion factors increased by 1.51%. These control how much the insurer pays your doctors.
- Maximum fees for independent medical examinations (IMEs) also rose 1.51%.
These provider fees do not come out of your pocket. Under Minnesota law, approved medical care for a work injury is paid by the workers’ compensation insurer.
Is Your Weekly Benefit Correct?
Your benefit is only as accurate as the average weekly wage the insurer uses to calculate it. Errors are common. Overtime, second jobs, seasonal work, bonuses, and the value of employer-paid health insurance can all affect your wage. A small mistake in the weekly wage can cost you thousands of dollars over the life of a claim.
Talk to a Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Attorney
At Mottaz & Sisk Injury Law, we review benefit calculations every day. We represent injured workers throughout Minnesota from our offices in Coon Rapids, Shakopee, St. Cloud, and Woodbury. Consultations are free. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay no attorney fee unless we recover benefits for you, and we do not bill clients for costs. Call 763-421-8226 or contact us to talk with our team.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Every case is unique, and results may vary. Consult an attorney about your specific circumstances.
