California’s workers’ compensation system is seeing important updates in 2025 that directly impact injured workers across the state, including here in Santa Rosa. Understanding these changes is critical to protecting your rights if you are hurt at work — and ensuring you receive the benefits you deserve.
Please note: Our office exclusively handles work-related injury claims. We do not assist with general employment law issues or independent contractor matters.
What California Law Says About Uninsured Employers
Under California Labor Code Section 3700, all employers are legally required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, even if they have only one part-time employee. This insurance is meant to cover medical costs, lost wages, and rehabilitation services if a worker is injured on the job.
Unfortunately, some employers fail to comply with this requirement, either out of negligence or in an effort to cut costs. If you’re hurt at work and your employer doesn’t have insurance, you’re still protected under California law—but the process is different.
Learn about navigating workers’ compensation claims.
Workers’ Compensation: Ensure You Get Every Benefit You’re Entitled
Key Changes to Workers’ Compensation in 2025
Increase in Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Benefits
Effective January 1, 2025, the minimum and maximum rates for Temporary Total Disability (TTD) have increased to provide stronger financial support to injured workers during their recovery periods:
- The minimum TTD rate has increased from $242.86 to $252.03 per week.
- The maximum TTD rate has increased from $1,619.15 to $1,680.29 per week.
This adjustment helps workers who are temporarily unable to work due to injury maintain financial stability while they heal.
Enhanced Employer Obligations for Workplace Postings
Beginning January 1, 2025, employers must update their required workplace postings to better inform employees of their rights. One key addition is the requirement that postings explicitly state that injured workers have the right to consult with a licensed attorney when pursuing a workers’ compensation claim.
This change aims to empower workers to seek professional help early, ensuring they fully understand and assert their rights after a work-related injury.
What if your employer doesn’t offer alternative work after an injury?
Understanding Your Workers’ Comp Rights: No Alternative Work Arrangements Offered
Why Staying Informed Matters for Injured Workers
These changes reflect California’s ongoing commitment to protecting injured workers by ensuring they receive appropriate compensation and fair treatment. However, navigating the workers’ compensation system can be complex, especially when new laws and requirements come into play. Having an experienced attorney by your side can make all the difference in securing your benefits.
At Kneisler & Schondel, we focus exclusively on representing injured workers—not employers, not independent contractors. If you’ve been hurt on the job, our Santa Rosa-based legal team is here to help you through every step of the process.
FAQs
1. How much did California increase workers’ compensation benefits in 2025?
The minimum Temporary Total Disability (TTD) rate increased to $252.03 per week, and the maximum rose to $1,680.29 per week. These updates provide stronger financial support to injured workers during their recovery.
2. What rights do I have if I’m injured at work?
You have the right to:
- Receive medical treatment for your injuries
Collect wage replacement benefits - Request job retraining if you cannot return to your former role
- Consult with a licensed attorney without retaliation
3. Why do the new workplace posting requirements matter to me as an injured worker?
Updated postings ensure that you are clearly informed about your right to seek legal representation — a critical step in protecting yourself during the workers’ compensation claim process.
4. Does your office help with employment law issues like wrongful termination or discrimination?
No. Our office exclusively handles work-related injury claims through the California workers’ compensation system.