Related Link Why do I need an attorney for my workers’ compensation claim process?

If you’ve had to look for work in the last five years, you know that slow economic recovery and corporate restructuring have made for a job market that is strange and often difficult to navigate.

Employers that might have competed for workers through salary figures 10 or 15 years ago might now be augmenting wages with creative compensation—benefits packages that offer workers non-monetary payment, such as flexible scheduling, use of the company car, or assistance with education or child care.

Why is this important to you? Because certain types of non-monetary compensation should be factored in to your average weekly earnings when you file for Northern California workers’ compensation.

Determining What Counts

Obviously, some creative compensation options—flexible scheduling being a prime example—can’t really have a dollar value attached and so should not be declared.

Benefits that directly feed into your cost-of-living, on the other hand, should be considered when determining your average weekly earnings. A few examples might include your employer providing you with:

• Rent and utilities
• Room and board
• Meals
• Groceries
• Child care

 

You will need to provide the insurance adjuster with proof of these types of earning.

Of course there are always exceptions on either side of the equation. If you are uncertain about the status of a non-monetary benefit, schedule a free initial consultation with a skilled Northern California workers comp lawyer as soon as you are able. Call the Ledgerwood Law Group toll free at 888-761-7383 or fill out our online form. Our info-packed guide, The California Workers’ Compensation Survival Manual, is free at your request.