By September 1 of each year, the state must compute the minimum and maximum weekly income benefits for the fiscal year. When is the deadline?

• A. January 1
• B. December 31
• C. August 31
• D. September 1

Answer: (D)

The key point is that Texas updates the workers’ compensation benefit levels on an annual schedule tied to the state’s fiscal year. The minimum and maximum weekly benefits are recalculated to reflect the current state average weekly wage and are set for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins on September 1. Reaching that start date ensures the new benefit amounts are in place for the entire year. Therefore, the deadline is September 1. Dates like January 1 or December 31 follow the calendar year, while August 31 is simply the day before the new fiscal year starts and isn’t the official computation deadline.