How can I determine my pre-injury average weekly wage?

Determining your pre-injury average weekly wage (AWW) is an important step in calculating the income replacement benefits you may be entitled to under the Texas workers' compensation system. Here's a breakdown of how to calculate your AWW:

1. Gather Your Earnings Information:

   • Collect documentation of your earnings for the 13 weeks prior to your work-related injury. This can include pay stubs, timesheets, or other records.

   • Make sure to include all forms of compensation, such as regular wages, overtime pay, bonuses, commissions, etc.

2. Calculate Your Total Earnings:

   • Add up your total gross earnings for the 13 weeks prior to your injury.

3. Divide by 13:

   • Divide your total earnings by 13 to get your average weekly wage.

For example, let's say your total earnings for the 13 weeks prior to your injury were $15,600. To calculate your AWW, you would:

$15,600 total earnings ÷ 13 weeks = $1,200 average weekly wage

It's important to note that there are some exceptions and special rules that may apply in certain situations, such as:

• If you've been employed for less than 13 weeks, your AWW will be based on your earnings during the period of employment prior to the injury.

• If you have irregular earnings or work overtime regularly, the insurance carrier may use an alternative method to calculate your AWW.

• There are also state-mandated minimum and maximum AWW amounts that can impact your income benefit calculations.

Consulting with a workers' compensation attorney can help ensure your AWW is accurately determined, as this figure is a crucial component in calculating the income replacement benefits you may be eligible to receive.