How long does it take to find out if I get benefits?
Once we get your audiogram (hearing test) and your retirement date (month and year) we can tell you right away.
How long does it take to get money once I find out that I will qualify?
It takes about 6-8 months after your claim is filed…sometimes shorter…sometimes longer. It depends upon the state and/or insurance carrier.
How much can I receive as compensation?
Compensation running as high as $67,392 plus money for hearing aid(s) and related expenses may be available. If the statute of limitations has run, the State of Wisconsin has a fund known as the Barred Claims Fund for which employees may be eligible for lesser amounts. Overall, compensation in the range of $5,000 – $10,000 plus some payment for hearing aids is common. Compensation between $15,000 and $20,000 is not unusual.
What if I worked for many different companies?
Not a problem. We’ll help you track down your work history and any past hearing tests. Once that’s done your claim may be filed.
I was a hunter, a racecar driver, etc. How does the state look at those facts?
The law says work noise must contribute to your loss… work noise doesn’t need to be the only reason for your loss. If you were exposed to noise in the past (military) or now (hunting), your claim may still qualify.
I have been retired for many years, what is the statute of limitations on a claim?
There is no statute of limitations. If you retired within the last 12 years, the claim goes to your last noisy employer’s insurance company. If you retired over 12 years ago, benefits will come from a fund set up by the state.
My company is out of business, does that affect my claim?
It does not matter if your company is out of business. The claim goes back the insurance company that your company had while you were working.
My company always made us wear hearing protection. How can they be responsible?
Studies show hearing protection is rarely 100% effective. It is also removed from time to time to speak with co-workers and re-adjust. As long as harmful work noise contributed to your loss you may have a good claim.
I got laid off. How long do I have to wait to file?
You don’t have to wait unless you plan to return to work for the same employer. If so, then you will have to wait 6 months says the state law.
I just retired, when can I file?
Immediately.
How much does a claim cost?
Attorney fees of 20% are contingent on recovery. Additional costs range from $50 to $500, depending on claim specifics. There are no fees or costs to you unless you receive compensation.
Will this claim affect my pension, social security, and/or health insurance benefits?
Worker’s compensation for hearing loss is generally tax-free and has no impact on Social Security, pension, or health insurance benefits.
How long have you handled these claims? What is your record of success?
Johnson Law Offices has handled hearing loss claims exclusively since 1983…approximately 95% of all claims we file receive compensation.