State law requires that benefits be recalculated each year to reflect the change in the state's average wage from the previous calendar year. The results of this recalculation is the cost of living adjustment (COLA).

The COLA for 2021 increases the maximum monthly benefit to $7,674 or 120 percent of the state's average monthly wage.

The increase also applies to pension benefits paid to family members of those who died because of a work-related accident or disease.

The increase becomes effective July 1, 2021 for most. There are some exceptions:

• Certain workers who also receive federal Social Security benefits may not be entitled to this annual COLA.
• Most workers with an injury date between July 1, 2020, and June 30, 2021, will receive their first COLA on July 1, 2022.

For claim benefit questions: Claims Communication & Outreach Liaison at 360-902-6280.