what are section 34 benefits for massachusetts workers comp

Section 34 benefits refer to the temporary total incapacity compensation provided under Massachusetts workers' compensation law. Here are the key points about these benefits:

  1. Eligibility: Section 34 benefits are available to workers who are temporarily unable to perform any job due to a work-related injury.

  2. Compensation Rate: The compensation paid under Section 34 is equal to 60% of the injured worker's average weekly wage (AWW) before the injury. This average is calculated based on earnings from the 52 weeks prior to the injury.

  3. Maximum and Minimum Limits: There are maximum and minimum limits on the compensation amount, which adjust periodically. These limits are determined by the Massachusetts Division of Industrial Accidents.

  4. Duration of Benefits: Workers can receive Section 34 benefits for a maximum of 156 weeks (approximately three years) from the date of the injury.

  5. Examples and Calculation: For practical understanding, if a worker's average weekly wage before the injury was $1,000, the compensation under Section 34 would be $600 per week.

For more detailed information and legal language, you can refer to the original legal text from the Massachusetts legislature here or resources from legal firms specializing in workers' compensation here.

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