How much is a big toe injury worth in Kentucky workers' comp?
How Kentucky workers' compensation pays for a big toe injury, the 2026 benefit rates, and what to check before you accept a settlement.
How a big toe injury is paid in Kentucky
Kentucky has no body-part schedule. An injury to the big toe is rated as an impairment and paid under the state's general formula: 66.67% of AWW × whole-person AMA impairment % × statutory grid factor (0.65 to 1.70), for 425 weeks (520 if rating >50%); ×3 if the worker cannot return to the same type of work.
General rule for permanent injuries in Kentucky: 66.67% of AWW × whole-person AMA impairment % × statutory grid factor (0.65 to 1.70), for 425 weeks (520 if rating >50%); ×3 if the worker cannot return to the same type of work.
What is different in Kentucky
Benefits triple if the worker cannot return to the same type of work, and double for any period a worker who returned at the same or higher wage later stops earning it. Income benefits end at age 70 or 4 years after the injury, whichever is later.
Settlement value vs. the statutory award
The figures on this page are what Kentucky law sets. Many claims end in a negotiated settlement instead. Insurers usually start from the statutory award for your rating, then adjust for disputed ratings, future medical care, how long wage-loss benefits could run and the risk of a hearing. Knowing the statutory number for a big toe injury helps you judge whether an offer is low.
Kentucky vs. neighboring states
| State | How a big toe injury is paid | Max for total loss |
|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | impairment rating (see rule) | — |
| Illinois | 38 weeks | $41,217 |
| Indiana | 12 degrees | $24,094 |
| Missouri | 40 weeks | $27,127 |
| Ohio | 30 weeks | $38,430 |
| Tennessee | whole-person % × 450 weeks | — |
| Virginia | 30 weeks | $45,210 |
| West Virginia | 40 weeks | $32,226 |
"Max for total loss" applies to body-part schedules at the top weekly rate. Compare all 50 states and D.C.
While you recover: temporary disability in Kentucky
Weekly temporary benefits while you cannot work follow these rules:
| Weekly rate | 66.67% of AWW (highest 13-week period of the last 52 weeks) |
|---|---|
| Maximum weekly benefit | $1,277.99 (2026-01-01 to 2026-12-31) |
| Minimum weekly benefit | $232.36 (2026; 20% of SAWW) |
| Waiting period | 7 days |
| Waiting days paid back after | 14 days of disability |
| Time limit on temporary benefits | No fixed week limit in statute |
Estimate your weekly check
Frequently asked questions
How is a big toe injury paid in Kentucky workers' comp?
Kentucky has no body-part schedule. An injury to the big toe is rated as an impairment and paid under the state's general formula: 66.67% of AWW × whole-person AMA impairment % × statutory grid factor (0.65 to 1.70), for 425 weeks (520 if rating >50%); ×3 if the worker cannot return to the same type of work.
What is the maximum weekly workers' comp benefit in Kentucky in 2026?
The maximum weekly temporary total disability benefit is $1,277.99 (2026-01-01 to 2026-12-31).
Is there a waiting period in Kentucky?
Yes. Kentucky does not pay the first 7 days of lost time, but pays them back once disability lasts more than 14 days.
Which law sets these amounts?
KRS 342.040 (waiting period), KRS 342.730 (income benefits), KRS 342.740 (SAWW). The official sources are linked at the bottom of this page.
Other injuries in Kentucky
Law and official sources
Official sources
Statute: KRS 342.040 (waiting period), KRS 342.730 (income benefits), KRS 342.740 (SAWW); KRS 342.730(1)(b), (1)(c)1, (1)(c)2, (4)
- Kentucky Department of Workers' Claims (official site)
- elc.ky.gov/Workers-Compensation/Workers%20Compensation/2026%20Workers'%20Compensation%20Be
- apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=47625
Figures checked September 30, 2026. Maximums change every year; confirm current figures with the Kentucky workers' compensation agency.
Estimate only. Your real award depends on your doctor's rating, your wage records, offsets and settlement terms. This page is general information, not legal advice.