How Ohio Businesses Handle Monthly Workers' Compensation Payments

Monthly Payments: What Ohio Employers Must Know

Ohio law requires that workers' compensation benefits be paid monthly, not weekly or bi‑weekly. The state's Workers' Compensation Board (WCB) sets a standard schedule: payments are made on the 15th and last day of each month for any claim that has been approved and is still active. Employers who file claims electronically through the WCB's portal can see the exact due dates in their account dashboard.

Eligibility and Timing

To qualify for monthly benefit payments, the employee must have a documented claim that has passed the initial investigation phase and a medical assessment confirming a work‑related injury or illness. Once the claim is approved, the insurer or the Ohio Employees' Compensation Insurance Fund (OECIF) will issue a payment notice. The employee must sign and return this notice within ten days; otherwise, the insurer may delay the monthly disbursement.

Calculating the Payment Amount

Monthly benefits are calculated based on the employee's average weekly wage (AWP) before the injury, multiplied by a percentage that varies with the severity of the injury:

The AWP is capped at the state's maximum wage limit, which for 2024 is $1,800 per week. If an employee's weekly wage exceeds this cap, the benefit calculation uses $1,800 instead of the actual wage.

Filing and Record‑Keeping Requirements

Employers must submit a Claim 2 form within 30 days of the injury and keep a copy of all medical reports. Ohio's e‑claims system allows electronic submission, which speeds up approval and ensures that monthly payments start on schedule. Failure to file on time can result in delayed or reduced payments, and in some cases, the employer may be held liable for the difference.

Handling Payment Disputes

Disagreements over the monthly amount or payment schedule should be addressed through the WCB's dispute resolution process. The employer can request a review if the employee believes the AWP was calculated incorrectly or if the medical assessment was flawed. A written appeal must be filed within 30 days of the disputed payment.

Tips for Small Businesses

• Maintain an up‑to‑date payroll system that tracks weekly wages accurately.
• Use the WCB's online portal to monitor claim status and payment dates.
• Keep copies of all correspondence with the insurer and the employee.
• Schedule quarterly reviews of all active claims to anticipate upcoming payments.
• Consider a dedicated claims administrator to manage filing deadlines and documentation.