Michigan Workers' Compensation Laws
Michigan's Worker's Disability Compensation Act provides no-fault benefits to employees injured on the job. Injured workers receive wage-loss benefits equal to 80% of their after-tax average weekly wage, subject to a $1,201/week maximum (2026). The employer chooses the treating physician for the first 28 days; after that, the employee may choose. Workers' compensation is the exclusive remedy — the only exception is intentional torts, which require an extremely high burden of proof.
Last verified: 2026-02-25
Statute of Limitations
The employee must give notice to the employer within 90 days of the injury. A formal claim must be filed within 2 years of: the injury date, the date disability manifests, or the last day of employment, whichever is later.
Filing Requirements
Notify your employer within 90 days of the injury or within 90 days of when you knew or should have known of the injury.
File a claim with the Workers' Disability Compensation Agency within 2 years. Disputes are heard by a magistrate at the WDCA.
Key Michigan Statutes
Total disability benefits pay 80% of after-tax average weekly wage. Maximum weekly rate is $1,201 (2026). Partial disability pays 80% of the difference between pre-injury and post-injury wage-earning capacity.
The employer has the right to choose the initial treating physician for the first 28 days. After 28 days, the employee may choose their own physician.
Workers' compensation is the exclusive remedy against the employer. The only exception is intentional torts — requiring a deliberate act where the employer specifically intended an injury. This is an extremely high bar.
Scheduled benefits for permanent injuries: paid at 80% of after-tax average weekly wage for a set number of weeks based on the body part (e.g., loss of arm, leg, hand, foot, eye). The schedule provides specific week counts for each type of loss.
Official Sources
Not Legal Advice
This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change — verify current statutes at Michigan Legislature — Compiled Laws. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney.
Other Michigan Laws
Personal Injury Laws·Criminal Defense Laws·Family Laws·Immigration Laws·Employment Laws·Bankruptcy Laws·Medical Malpractice Laws·Social Security Disability Laws·Estate Planning Laws·Real Estate Laws·Landlord & Tenant Laws·Business Laws·Intellectual Property Laws·Tax Laws·Elder Laws·Civil Rights Laws·Domestic Violence Laws·Veterans Legal Services Laws·Healthcare & Benefits Laws