How Much Workers' Comp Pays in Arkansas
How Arkansas calculates weekly workers' comp benefits, the current maximum, the waiting period and permanent disability.
Short answer: Temporary total disability is 66 2/3% of the worker's average weekly wage, rounded to the nearest whole dollar, up to the state maximum. Benefits are tax-free and are normally paid every two weeks; Ark. Code Ann. § 11-9-501(b); AWCC Advisory 2000-1 Update (Oct. 1, 2025); Questions & Answers brochure
| Weekly benefit rate | Temporary total disability is 66 2/3% of the worker's average weekly wage, rounded to the nearest whole dollar, up to the state maximum. Benefits are tax-free and are normally paid every two weeks; if the injury is reported promptly, the first check should arrive within 14 days. |
|---|---|
| Maximum weekly benefit | For injuries or deaths from January 1 through December 31, 2026, the maximum weekly benefit is $953 for total disability (85% of the state average weekly wage of $1,120.68) and $715 for permanent partial disability. The minimum weekly rate is $20. |
| How long benefits last | Temporary total disability is paid during the healing period while the worker is totally unable to earn wages. Permanent partial disability is paid for a set number of weeks: the law assigns a number of weeks to each body part and to the body as a whole, and that number is multiplied by the doctor's impairment rating. A worker who is permanently and totally disabled is entitled to benefits for life. Disability benefits for a mental injury are limited to 26 weeks. |
| Waiting period | The waiting period is seven calendar days, and the time off must be at the direction of the approved doctor. Wage benefits start on the eighth day of disability. The first seven days are paid only if the disability lasts more than 14 days. |
| Permanent disability | For a permanent impairment, the Legislature assigns a number of weeks to each body part and to the body as a whole; that number is multiplied by the physician's impairment rating to set the weeks of permanent partial disability benefits. In 2026 the PPD rate is generally 75% of the worker's total disability rate, up to $715 per week; for amputation or total loss of use of a member, the PPD rate equals the TD rate. If the impairment reduces earning ability, wage-loss benefits may also be available. Permanent total disability benefits are paid for life. |
Where to get help in Arkansas
More Arkansas workers' compensation
- Filing a Workers' Comp Claim in Arkansas
- Workers' Comp Settlements in Arkansas
- Retaliation for Filing Workers' Comp in Arkansas
- Suing Over a Work Injury in Arkansas
- Appealing a Denied Workers' Comp Claim in Arkansas
- All Arkansas workers' compensation rules
FAQ
How much does workers' comp pay in Arkansas?
Temporary total disability is 66 2/3% of the worker's average weekly wage, rounded to the nearest whole dollar, up to the state maximum. Benefits are tax-free and are normally paid every two weeks; if the injury is reported promptly, the first check should arrive within 14 days.
What is the maximum workers' comp benefit in Arkansas?
For injuries or deaths from January 1 through December 31, 2026, the maximum weekly benefit is $953 for total disability (85% of the state average weekly wage of $1,120.68) and $715 for permanent partial disability. The minimum weekly rate is $20.
How long can you receive workers' comp in Arkansas?
Temporary total disability is paid during the healing period while the worker is totally unable to earn wages. Permanent partial disability is paid for a set number of weeks: the law assigns a number of weeks to each body part and to the body as a whole, and that number is multiplied by the doctor's impairment rating. A worker who is permanently and totally disabled is entitled to benefits for life. Disability benefits for a mental injury are limited to 26 weeks.
Is there a waiting period for workers' comp in Arkansas?
The waiting period is seven calendar days, and the time off must be at the direction of the approved doctor. Wage benefits start on the eighth day of disability. The first seven days are paid only if the disability lasts more than 14 days.
How does permanent disability work under workers' comp in Arkansas?
For a permanent impairment, the Legislature assigns a number of weeks to each body part and to the body as a whole; that number is multiplied by the physician's impairment rating to set the weeks of permanent partial disability benefits. In 2026 the PPD rate is generally 75% of the worker's total disability rate, up to $715 per week; for amputation or total loss of use of a member, the PPD rate equals the TD rate. If the impairment reduces earning ability, wage-loss benefits may also be available. Permanent total disability benefits are paid for life.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.