How much is hearing loss worth in Michigan workers' comp?
How Michigan workers' compensation pays for hearing loss, the 2026 benefit rates, and what to check before you accept a settlement.
How hearing loss is paid in Michigan
Michigan's schedule has no separate entry for hearing loss in both ears. Permanent injuries that are not on the schedule are paid under the general rule: No impairment-rating award; non-scheduled permanent injuries are paid as ongoing weekly wage-loss benefits at 80% of after-tax AWW.
General rule for permanent injuries in Michigan: No impairment-rating award; non-scheduled permanent injuries are paid as ongoing weekly wage-loss benefits at 80% of after-tax AWW.
What is different in Michigan
Michigan has no impairment-rating PPD award: the specific-loss schedule pays a fixed number of weeks at the weekly comp rate for amputation or loss of use of listed members, and everything else is paid only as wage-loss benefits.
Settlement value vs. the statutory award
The figures on this page are what Michigan 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 hearing loss helps you judge whether an offer is low.
Michigan vs. neighboring states
| State | How hearing loss is paid | Max for total loss |
|---|---|---|
| Michigan | wage loss | — |
| Indiana | 40 degrees | $92,550 |
| Ohio | 125 weeks | $160,125 |
| Wisconsin | 330 weeks | $149,820 |
"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 Michigan
Weekly temporary benefits while you cannot work follow these rules:
| Weekly rate | 80% of after-tax (spendable) AWW |
|---|---|
| Maximum weekly benefit | $1,201 (2026-01-01 to 2026-12-31) |
| Minimum weekly benefit | No general minimum (minimums apply only to specific loss and death claims) - secondary |
| Waiting period | Not confirmed |
| Waiting days paid back after | Not confirmed |
| Time limit on temporary benefits | No fixed week limit in statute |
Estimate your weekly check
Frequently asked questions
How is hearing loss paid in Michigan workers' comp?
Michigan's schedule has no separate entry for hearing loss in both ears. Permanent injuries that are not on the schedule are paid under the general rule: No impairment-rating award; non-scheduled permanent injuries are paid as ongoing weekly wage-loss benefits at 80% of after-tax AWW.
What is the maximum weekly workers' comp benefit in Michigan in 2026?
The maximum weekly temporary total disability benefit is $1,201 (2026-01-01 to 2026-12-31).
Which law sets these amounts?
MCL 418.301, 418.311, 418.355, 418.361. The official sources are linked at the bottom of this page.
Other injuries in Michigan
Law and official sources
Official sources
Statute: MCL 418.301, 418.311, 418.355, 418.361; MCL 418.301, 418.361
- Workers' Disability Compensation Agency (official site)
- michigan.gov/leo/-/media/Project/Websites/leo/Documents/WDCA-Calculation-Program/wca_2026_
- legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=MCL-418-301
- legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-418-355
- codes.findlaw.com/mi/chapter-418-workers-disability-compensation/mi-comp-laws-418-361/
Figures checked September 30, 2026. Maximums change every year; confirm current figures with the Michigan 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.