YES. Dependents of a worker who dies because of a work related injury or illness may be eligible to receive death benefits. The weekly benefits payments are 70% of the weekly wage of the deceased worker, not to exceed the maximum benefit amount established annually by the Commissioner of Labor. The benefit amount is divided by the surviving dependents as determined by a judge after a hearing on extent of dependency.
A surviving spouse and natural children who were a part of decedent’s household at the time of death are conclusively presumed to be dependents.
A surviving spouse and natural children who were not a part of the decedent’s household at the time of death and all other alleged dependents (parents, grandparents, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, etc.) must prove actual dependency.
Children who are deemed to be dependents remain so until the age of 18 years or if a full-time student, until the age of 23 years.
If a child is physically or mentally disabled, he/she may be eligible for further benefits.
The employer or its insurance carrier is responsible to pay up to $3,500 in funeral expenses for a job-related death. These funds are payable to whomever is liable for the funeral bill, be it the estate or an individual.