Understanding Death Benefits In Ohio Workers’ Compensation Cases
Losing a loved one due to a workplace accident or job-related illness is devastating. In Ohio, families of workers who have died on the job may be eligible for workers’ compensation death benefits.
At Rummell, Curry & Regginello Law Firm, we have over 50 years of combined experience helping families in Youngstown and Northeast Ohio obtain the compensation they deserve after a tragic loss. Navigating the legal system during such a difficult time can be overwhelming, but our team is here to provide the guidance and advocacy you need.
Who Can Receive Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits?
In Ohio, workers’ compensation death benefits are available to surviving dependents of a worker who was killed in a work accident or suffered a fatal illness due to occupational exposure. Eligible dependents may include:
- Spouses: A surviving spouse typically receives benefits until remarriage or for life in some cases
- Children: Minor children or full-time students up to age 25 may receive benefits
- Other dependents: Parents, siblings or others who relied on the deceased worker for financial support
The amount and duration of benefits depend on the worker’s wages and the level of dependency of surviving family members.
What Benefits Are Available?
When a worker has died on the job, Ohio’s workers’ compensation system provides several forms of financial support, including:
- Weekly compensation: A percentage of the deceased worker’s wages paid to eligible dependents
- Funeral and burial expenses: Coverage for reasonable funeral costs, up to the state-mandated limit
- Medical expenses: Payment for any medical care the worker received before passing due to the work-related injury or illness
These benefits aim to ease the financial burden on families, allowing them to focus on healing and moving forward.
How To File A Death Benefits Claim In Ohio
Securing workers’ compensation death benefits requires filing a claim with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC). The process includes:
- Submitting proof of the worker’s death
- Providing evidence of dependency
- Filing within the time limits
If a claim is denied, families have the right to appeal. An attorney can help gather the necessary evidence and present a strong case.
Speak With A Workers’ Compensation Lawyer In Northeast Ohio
If your loved one was killed in a work accident in Youngstown and across Northeast Ohio, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation death benefits. Call 330-840-3970 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation.