Michigan Workers’ Compensation in 2025: Complete Guide

Workers’ compensation in Michigan provides wage replacement, medical care, and rehab benefits when you’re hurt on the job. Most employers must carry private insurance or self-insure; Michigan itself doesn’t pay benefits directly.

Who Needs Coverage & Why It Matters

Under the Workers’ Disability Compensation Act, Michigan requires:

• Employers with 3+ employees, or
• Those with 1 employee working ≥35 hrs/week for 13+ weeks (per state law).

Coverage protects employees and shields employers from lawsuits.

Medical Treatment Process

1. Report the injury immediately.
2. The employer selects the doctor for the first 28 days.
3. After 28 days, you may choose your provider and notify your employer and insurer.
4. Unless there is a dispute, reasonable, necessary hospital treatment does not require approval.

Filing a Claim: Steps You Should Know to file a Michigan Workers Comp Claim

Your employer usually files the claim. If they don’t, use Form WC‑117 through the Michigan Workers’ Disability Compensation Agency. If the claim is disputed, file WC‑104A for mediation or a hearing.

Wage-Loss Benefits: Timing & Amounts

• There is a 7-day waiting period before wage loss benefits begin, which starts on Day 8 if the individual is out of work for longer than 7 days.
• 14+ days off makes the first week retroactive.
• Benefits = ~80% of after-tax wages, capped at $1,164/week in 2025.

Rehab & Return-to-Work Support

If your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job, you may qualify for vocational rehabilitation, including retraining, job placement, or education. Disputes can go to a hearing.

Employer Penalties & Legal Risks

• Injured employees can sue uninsured employers.
• Courts may order the agency to suspend operations until they secure insurance.
• Penalties include $1,000/day fines and up to 6 months in jail per uninsured day.

Recent Updates You Should Know

• Minimum wage will increase to $12.48/hr by Feb 2025.
• The Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) will take effect on February 21, 2025, allowing for up to 72 hours of paid sick leave, with posters required within 30 days.
• Weekly compensation cap = $1,164 for 2025.
• Pending bills (SB 1079/1080) could alter death and post-termination benefits.

Helpful Resource

For official forms and updates, visit the Michigan Workers’ Disability Compensation Agency.

Quick FAQ

• Switching doctors? The benefits begin after the initial 28 days.
• When do wage benefits start? Starting on your eighth day off work, you will receive retroactive pay if you miss more than 14 days.
• The maximum weekly payout is set at $1,164 in 2025.
• Is the employer at risk of imprisonment? Indeed, each uninsured day incurs fines and jail time. Michigan employers can click the link to find out how to get Michigan Workers’ Compensation Insurance.

What to Do Next

1. Please report any injuries at your earliest convenience.
2. Track medical visits and receipts.
3. File WC‑117 if the employer delays.
4. Confirm you receive 80% wage loss.
5. Pursue WC‑104A mediation/hearing if a dispute arises.

Need Help? Act Now 🚀

Have you sustained an injury at work? Do you need help with filing or disputing your workers’ compensation claim? Contact a licensed Michigan workers’ comp attorney or visit the official WDCA site for forms and expert guidance.