Free Tool

What's Your Case Worth?

Estimate the value of your NYS workers' compensation settlement. Calculate Schedule Loss of Use (SLU) awards by body part under WCL §15(3) and explore whether a Section 32 settlement makes sense for your case.

How It Works

Three steps to estimate the value of your workers' compensation settlement in New York.

1

Select Your Body Part

Choose the injured body part from the WCL §15(3) schedule — arm, leg, hand, foot, finger, toe, eye, or ear.

2

Enter Your % Loss

Enter the percentage of permanent loss of use as determined by your treating physician or IME doctor.

3

See Your Estimate

Get an instant SLU award estimate at the current maximum rate, plus attorney fee and net to claimant breakdowns.

Quick SLU Estimate

For the full calculator with prior award deductions, multiple body parts, and attorney fee breakdowns — use our SLU Calculator.

Settlement vs. Continued Benefits

Understanding your options under New York Workers' Compensation Law.

SLU Award (§15(3))

  • Lump-sum payment for permanent loss of use of a scheduled body part
  • Amount fixed by statute — percentage of loss × weeks × comp rate
  • Does not close your case for future medical treatment
  • No negotiation required — calculated per the Board's guidelines
  • Available for extremities: arms, legs, hands, feet, fingers, toes, eyes, ears

Section 32 Settlement

  • Voluntary lump-sum agreement that closes the entire case
  • Amount negotiated between claimant's attorney and the carrier
  • Typically closes medical benefits (unless carved out)
  • Must be approved by the Workers' Compensation Board
  • Available for all case types — schedule, classification, and occupational disease

Not sure which path is right for you? An experienced workers' compensation attorney can evaluate your specific situation and advise on the best strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about NYS workers' compensation settlements.

How are workers' comp settlements calculated in New York?
In New York, workers' compensation settlements are calculated based on the type of case. For Schedule Loss of Use (SLU) awards under WCL §15(3), the value equals the percentage of loss times the number of weeks assigned to that body part, multiplied by the claimant's compensation rate (2/3 of average weekly wage, capped at the statutory maximum). Section 32 settlements involve a lump-sum payment that closes the case entirely and are negotiated based on the present value of future benefits.
What is a Section 32 agreement?
A Section 32 agreement is a voluntary settlement under Workers' Compensation Law §32 that allows the claimant and carrier to resolve the entire case with a lump-sum payment. Once approved by the Workers' Compensation Board, it closes the case permanently — including future medical benefits unless specifically excluded. Both parties must consent, and the Board reviews the agreement to ensure it is in the claimant's best interest.
Should I settle my workers' comp case?
Whether to settle depends on several factors: the severity and permanency of your injury, your current and future medical needs, your age and work capacity, and the strength of your legal position. A settlement provides a lump sum but closes your case permanently. An attorney can help you evaluate whether a settlement offer fairly compensates your injuries or whether continuing to receive weekly benefits and medical coverage is more advantageous.
How much is my workers' comp case worth in New York?
The value of a NYS workers' compensation case depends on your average weekly wage, the body parts injured, the percentage of permanent impairment, your date of injury (which determines the maximum rate), and whether you have a Schedule Loss of Use (extremity) or classification (non-schedule) case. Use our free calculator above to estimate SLU values, or consult with an attorney for a comprehensive case valuation including Section 32 settlement potential.

Talk to a Workers' Comp Attorney

Not sure about your case value? Get a free consultation with an experienced NYS workers' compensation attorney who can evaluate your specific situation.

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