Workers Compensation in Hawaii
State-specific overview · Employment Law
Hawaii requires all employers to carry workers' compensation insurance; employees cannot waive coverage.
How Hawaii treats Workers Compensation
Hawaii's workers' compensation system is mandatory for all employers, with no exceptions for small businesses. Employees in Hawaii cannot sign away their right to workers' compensation benefits, making it one of the most employee-protective states. The state sets wage replacement at two-thirds of the employee's average weekly wage, subject to maximum and minimum limits that adjust annually. Coverage begins immediately upon hire and covers all work-related injuries and occupational diseases.
The general definition of Workers Compensation
Insurance that provides medical benefits and wage replacement to employees injured during work.
Workers compensation is a form of insurance that employers are required to carry to protect employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job. When an employee is hurt at work, workers compensation covers medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and a portion of lost wages while the employee recovers. In exchange, the employee generally gives up the right to sue the employer for the injury. The system is designed to provide quick, predictable benefits without the need for a lawsuit. Benefits vary by state and depend on the severity of the injury.
Read the full Workers Compensation entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Hawaii.