Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits: What You Need to Know

Losing a loved one in a tragic accident is an incredibly painful experience filled with grief and overwhelming emotions. The last thing anyone should have to worry about during that difficult time is the stress of paying for funeral costs or the challenges that come with navigating a new financial landscape.

Under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, families of a worker who tragically loses their life on the job may be entitled to several important benefits. These benefits may include funeral expenses and ongoing weekly payments based on the deceased worker's weekly wage.

Can I get compensation for losing a loved one on the job?

If the worker received medical treatment before passing away, the employer is responsible for those medical expenses—relieving the surviving spouse or estate from that financial burden. Additionally, the employer must contribute financially to the funeral costs within a reasonable amount of time. 

When a loved one dies as a result of a workplace injury or illness, their surviving dependents, including their spouse and/or children, may be entitled to weekly compensation in the form of death benefits. In some cases, if the decedent had a parent who was financially dependent on them, the surviving parent may be entitled to death benefits as well. 
 

Where do I begin?

When you’ve lost a loved one due to workplace injury or illness, you don’t have to navigate the complexities of the workers’ compensation system alone. As the leading workers’ compensation law firm in Rockford, IL, Black & Jones Attorneys at Law can help you understand your legal rights and guide you through every step of the process—from helping you file your claim to securing the benefits you deserve. Contact us today at (815) 967-9000 or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation.