Losing someone you love is one of life’s most difficult experiences. When that loss happens because of a workplace accident or illness, the grief is often compounded by confusion, questions, and legal red tape. Thankfully, Illinois law provides protections for surviving family members through workers’ compensation death benefits.

Understanding Death Benefits in Illinois Workers’ Compensation

In Illinois, workers’ compensation isn’t just for injured employees – it also supports families left behind after a fatal work-related incident. If your loved one passed away due to a job-related injury or illness, you may be eligible for financial support under the state’s workers’ comp system.

Who Is Eligible for Death Benefits?

To qualify, the death must have resulted from a work-related cause, and the employee must have been performing their job duties when the incident occurred.

Eligible dependents may include:

– Primary beneficiaries: A surviving spouse and children. Children under 18 automatically qualify, as do full-time students under 25 and children of any age who are mentally or physically disabled.
– Dependent parents: If the deceased had no spouse or children, fully dependent parents may qualify for benefits.
– Other dependents: If no spouse, children, or dependent parents exist, other relatives such as siblings or stepchildren who were at least 50% financially dependent on the deceased may be eligible.

What Kind of Support Is Available?

– Weekly Survivor Benefits: Qualifying dependents receive two-thirds of the deceased worker’s average weekly wage, based on earnings from the 52 weeks before the incident. This ongoing support can help cover living expenses and provide financial stability during a difficult time.
– Funeral and Burial Costs: The law provides a one-time payment of up to $8,000 to assist with burial or funeral expenses.

You’re Not Alone – We’re Here to Help

At Krol, Bongiorno & Given, we understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with legal matters after the death of a loved one. Our team has successfully handled over 30,000 workers’ compensation claims and secured some of the largest awards in the state.

If you’re navigating the loss of a loved one due to a workplace accident, don’t go through it alone. Let us guide you through the process and fight for the support your family deserves.

Call us at (312) 726-5567 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.