How much is a shoulder injury worth in Rhode Island workers' comp?
How Rhode Island workers' compensation pays for a shoulder injury, the 2026 benefit rates, and what to check before you accept a settlement.
How a shoulder injury is paid in Rhode Island
Rhode Island has no shoulder entry; the arm at or above the elbow is 312 weeks. The statute does not say whether shoulder loss of use is rated against the arm.
General rule for permanent injuries in Rhode Island: no whole-body impairment award; partial incapacity pays 62% of the difference between pre- and post-injury weekly wages (injuries from 2022) for up to 312 weeks, with continuation possible after review.
What is different in Rhode Island
Rhode Island's specific compensation for loss or loss of use of body parts is paid on top of wage-loss benefits but at a low flat-ish rate (50% of AWW, $90-$180/week). Permanent disfigurement can also be paid, up to 500 weeks, as a one-time payment.
Settlement value vs. the statutory award
The figures on this page are what Rhode Island 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 shoulder injury helps you judge whether an offer is low.
Rhode Island vs. neighboring states
| State | How a shoulder injury is paid | Max for total loss |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | depends on how it is rated | — |
| Connecticut | depends on how it is rated | — |
| Massachusetts | wage loss | — |
"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 Rhode Island
Weekly temporary benefits while you cannot work follow these rules:
| Weekly rate | 62% of AWW for injuries on/after 2022-01-01 (previously 75% of average weekly spendable base wage) |
|---|---|
| Maximum weekly benefit | $1,622 (2025-10-01 to 2026-09-30) |
| Minimum weekly benefit | No statutory minimum found |
| Waiting period | 3 days |
| 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 a shoulder injury paid in Rhode Island workers' comp?
Rhode Island has no shoulder entry; the arm at or above the elbow is 312 weeks. The statute does not say whether shoulder loss of use is rated against the arm.
What is the maximum weekly workers' comp benefit in Rhode Island in 2026?
The maximum weekly temporary total disability benefit is $1,622 (2025-10-01 to 2026-09-30).
Is there a waiting period in Rhode Island?
Yes. Rhode Island does not pay the first 3 days of lost time.
Which law sets these amounts?
R.I. Gen. Laws §28-33-17 (total incapacity), §28-33-19 (specific injuries). The official sources are linked at the bottom of this page.
Other injuries in Rhode Island
Law and official sources
Official sources
Statute: R.I. Gen. Laws §28-33-17 (total incapacity), §28-33-19 (specific injuries); R.I. Gen. Laws §28-33-19 (specific compensation); §28-33-18 (partial incapacity)
- Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Workers' Compensation Division (official site)
- dlt.ri.gov/workers-compensation/insurers-and-adjusters/maximum-compensation-rates
- dlt.ri.gov/sites/g/files/xkgbur571/files/2025-09/2025-04%20%20Max%20Compensation%20Rate%20
- dlt.ri.gov/workers-compensation/frequently-asked-questions
- webserver.rilegislature.gov/Statutes/TITLE28/28-33/28-33-17.htm
- law.justia.com/codes/rhode-island/title-28/chapter-28-33/section-28-33-19/
- webserver.rilegislature.gov/Statutes/TITLE28/28-33/28-33-18.htm
Figures checked September 30, 2026. Maximums change every year; confirm current figures with the Rhode Island 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.