A North Carolina workers comp lawyer fights for the check the law sets: 66 2/3% of your average weekly wage. For injuries in 2026, the cap is $1,446 a week. Tell your employer in writing within 30 days, then call us for a free review.
How Much North Carolina Workers Compensation Pays
Your check is two thirds of your average weekly wage. For injuries in 2026, the most you can get is $1,446 a week.
The first 7 days off work are unpaid. If you are out more than 21 days, those first 7 days get paid too.
Amy hurts her back at a furniture plant and misses more than 21 days of work. Because she passed 21 days, she is paid for all of her lost time, including the first 7 days.
Temporary checks stop after 500 weeks at most, unless you qualify for more. See what workers comp should pay you each week.
| Rule | North Carolina |
|---|---|
| Weekly check | 66 2/3% of your average weekly wage |
| Weekly cap, 2026 | $1,446 |
| Waiting period | first 7 days unpaid unless you are out more than 21 days |
| Temporary checks stop | after 500 weeks at most |
Deadlines Your Workers Comp Lawyer in North Carolina Watches
Tell your employer about the injury in writing. Do it right away, and no later than 30 days after the accident. Keep a copy.
Filing your claim is a separate step. Form 18 must reach the North Carolina Industrial Commission within two years. A report from your boss does not count as your claim.
Miss either date and you can lose your checks. The date counter turns these deadlines into real dates for your injury.
| Deadline | North Carolina |
|---|---|
| Tell your employer in writing | within 30 days |
| File your claim (Form 18) | within two years |
When Your Claim Is Denied or the Checks Stop
Your first move is a call to us for a free case review. A denial is not the final word.
Save the denial letter and write down the date on it. Keep your medical records, pay stubs and any notes from your boss.
Every claim in the state runs through the North Carolina Industrial Commission. Your attorney files the papers there and pushes back on the insurer. Read more on a denied claim or payments that stopped.
How Appeals Work at the Industrial Commission
A deputy commissioner holds the first hearing on a disputed claim. If that ruling goes against you, it can be appealed to the Full Commission.
The appeal window is short, and the decision letter starts the clock. Your attorney tracks that date and files the appeal for you.
What a North Carolina Attorney Costs You
Nothing up front. There is no fee unless you win, and the attorney is paid only out of money recovered.
North Carolina workers comp laws cap that fee, and the Industrial Commission must approve it. Learn more about what a workers comp lawyer costs.
The case review is free. Call now, and an attorney who handles cases in North Carolina gets on it right away.
Questions injured workers ask
How much does workers comp pay in North Carolina?
It pays 66 2/3% of your average weekly wage. For 2026 injuries, the cap is $1,446 a week. Call us for a free review of your rate.
How long do I have to report a work injury in North Carolina?
Tell your employer in writing no later than 30 days after the accident. File your Form 18 claim within two years.
Is the first week of workers comp paid?
The first 7 days are unpaid. If you are out more than 21 days, those days get paid too.
How long can North Carolina workers comp checks last?
Temporary checks stop after 500 weeks at most, unless you qualify for more. An attorney can check what applies to you.
What does a workers comp lawyer cost in North Carolina?
Nothing up front, and no fee unless you win. State law caps the fee, and it comes only from money recovered.
What should I do if my claim was denied?
Your first move is a call to us for a free case review. Save the denial letter and its date, and let your attorney take it from there.
Rates updated Sep 5, 2026