October 8, 2025
DWC updates average weekly wage, effective October 1
Each year, the Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) determines the maximum and minimum weekly benefit amounts for injured employees within the Texas workers’ compensation system. These amounts are calculated based on the state average weekly wage (SAWW). Learn more about the 2026 rates and find out how it affects sole proprietors.
2026 workers’ compensation benefit rates
The 2026 SAWW is $1,271.05. Based on this amount, the agency calculates maximum and minimum weekly amounts for workers’ comp benefit types. The new rates below apply for claims with dates of injury starting October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026.
| Maximum amount | Minimum amount | |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary income benefits (TIBs) | $1,271.00 | $191.00 |
| Impairment income benefits (IIBs) | $890.00 | $191.00 |
| Supplemental income benefits (SIBs) | $890.00 | N/A |
| Lifetime income benefits (LIBs) | $1,271.00 | $191.00 |
| Death benefits | $1,271.00 | N/A |
Payroll calculations for sole proprietors, partners and their working spouses
Texas Mutual provides coverage to sole proprietors, partners and their working spouses, unless they are specifically excluded by an insurance endorsement. The payroll for these individuals is a fixed annual amount based on the SAWW, regardless of their actual wages.
Based on the 2026 SAWW, the payroll for sole proprietors, partners and their working spouses beginning October 1, 2025 is $82,600.
As your workers’ compensation partner, we’re committed to keeping you up to date on the latest industry, regulatory and safety news to help you serve your clients and support your agency’s success. If you have any questions about these topics, please reach out to your Texas Mutual territory manager or underwriter.