Glossary · PA Workers' Comp

Average Weekly Wage (AWW)

The calculated weekly earnings figure used as the basis for determining workers' comp wage replacement benefits in Pennsylvania.

Definition

The Average Weekly Wage (AWW) is the baseline figure used to calculate workers' compensation wage replacement (indemnity) benefits in Pennsylvania. It is calculated from the injured worker's earnings in the 52 weeks immediately preceding the injury.

How Average Weekly Wage Is Calculated for PA Workers' Comp Claims

AWW is typically calculated as total gross earnings in the 52 weeks before injury divided by the number of weeks actually worked (not 52, if the employee didn't work the full year). This calculation method benefits workers who had a recent wage increase.

For part-time workers, the AWW calculation can be more complex and may not fully reflect earning capacity. Pennsylvania workers' comp benefits for part-time workers are calculated based on actual earnings, not a full-time equivalent.

The AWW is used to calculate both total disability benefits (2/3 of AWW, subject to statewide maximums) and partial disability benefits (based on the difference between AWW and current earning capacity).