What is the waiting period for workers' compensation income benefits in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, the waiting period for workers' compensation income benefits is indeed three days. This means that when an employee is injured and unable to work, they must wait for three calendar days before they begin to receive income benefits. This three-day waiting period applies unless their disability extends beyond a specified duration; if so, benefits may be retroactively paid for those initial three days.

Understanding this waiting period is crucial for both employees and employers in managing expectations around workers' compensation claims. It helps in establishing a clear protocol for when income replacement benefits will commence, following any workplace injury.

The option of one day is too short for the mandated waiting period in Hawaii. Similarly, seven and ten days exceed the statutory limit set for the waiting period, which could lead to confusion regarding the benefits system in place for injured workers.