How to use the attendant care benefit calculator
When a work injury leaves someone unable to manage daily activities alone, most state workers' compensation systems pay for attendant care or home health services. Pick a care level, enter the hourly rate your state approves, the hours of care per day and the number of days, and the calculator estimates the benefit.
Legal basis - attendant care is a state law benefit, not a federal one. It usually sits inside the medical benefit provisions of each state workers' compensation act, and the payable hourly rate comes from the state fee schedule or a judge's order. Federal employees are covered separately under FECA, 5 U.S.C. §8111, which pays a monthly attendant allowance. Figures here are current as of September 2026 and are typical market rates rather than statutory amounts, so your state may differ - check your state statute and fee schedule.
Many states require a physician's written prescription for attendant care, and several limit or exclude payment to a family member who is not a licensed provider. This calculator is for reference only and is not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney or your state workers' compensation board about your specific situation.
Frequently asked questions
In many states yes, but usually only when a doctor has prescribed the care and the hours are documented. Some states pay family caregivers at a lower rate than a licensed agency, and a few do not pay them at all, so the rule depends on your state statute.
Generally yes. Attendant care is treated as a medical benefit, so it is normally paid in addition to temporary or permanent disability payments rather than being deducted from them.