The phrase refers to a tool or resource designed to estimate the monetary compensation an individual may receive following a work-related injury or illness in a specific state. This estimate is based on a medical professional’s assessment of the permanent functional loss resulting from the condition, as well as the relevant state’s workers’ compensation laws and applicable compensation schedules. For example, if a worker sustains a permanent injury to their back, a physician would assign an impairment rating. This rating, along with other factors, would be entered into the tool to produce an estimated payout amount.
The significance of such resources lies in their ability to provide injured workers with a preliminary understanding of the potential compensation they are entitled to. This understanding can empower them to make informed decisions regarding their legal and medical options. Historically, calculating these benefits was a complex process, often requiring extensive legal and actuarial expertise. The advent of online calculators aims to simplify the process and increase transparency for those navigating the workers’ compensation system. Benefits include providing a starting point for settlement negotiations and understanding the relative value of different impairment ratings.