Division of Coal Mine Workers' Compensation (DCMWC)
Benefit rates are set in accordance with Section 412(a)(1) of the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act, which specifies that the rate for an individual Black Lung beneficiary is 37.5% of the base salary of a Federal employee at level GS-2, Step 1.
The 2024 rates are as follows:
Claim | Benefit Rate |
|---|---|
| Primary beneficiary | $772.60 |
| Primary beneficiary and one dependent | $1,158.90 |
| Primary beneficiary and two dependents | $1,352.00 |
| Primary beneficiary and three or more dependents | $1,545.20 |
Claim | Benefit Rate |
|---|---|
| Primary beneficiary | $772.00 |
| Primary beneficiary and one dependent | $1,158.00 |
| Primary beneficiary and two dependents | $1,352.00 |
| Primary beneficiary and three or more dependents | $1,545.00 |
However, if the beneficiary has received an award under another state or Federal workers' compensation program, the amount of the monthly benefit payment may be less than the rate shown above.
Please contact the appropriate U.S. Department of Labor Black Lung district office, if there are any questions concerning benefit rates or any other questions about Black Lung benefits.