5 USC § 8115
Determination of wage-earning capacity
through Pub. L. 116-216 (December 11, 2020)
USC

(a) In determining compensation for partial disability, except permanent partial disability compensable under sections 8107–8109 of this title, the wage-earning capacity of an employee is determined by his actual earnings if his actual earnings fairly and reasonably represent his wage-earning capacity. If the actual earnings of the employee do not fairly and reasonably represent his wage-earning capacity or if the employee has no actual earnings, his wage-earning capacity as appears reasonable under the circumstances is determined with due regard to—

(1) the nature of his injury;

(2) the degree of physical impairment;

(3) his usual employment;

(4) his age;

(5) his qualifications for other employment;

(6) the availability of suitable employment; and

(7) other factors or circumstances which may affect his wage-earning capacity in his disabled condition.

(b) Section 8114(d) of this title is applicable in determining the wage-earning capacity of an employee after the beginning of partial disability.

Open Table
Historical and Revision Notes
Derivation U.S. Code Revised Statutes and

Statutes at Large

5 U.S.C. 763. Sept. 7, 1916, ch. 458, §13, 39 Stat. 746.
  Oct. 14, 1949, ch. 691, §204, 63 Stat. 864.
  Sept. 13, 1960, Pub. L. 86–767, §204, 74 Stat. 908.

Standard changes are made to conform with the definitions applicable and the style of this title as outlined in the preface to the report.


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