One of the essential aspects of workers’ compensation is the variance between the different types of benefits. There are three main types that employees should be aware of.
Temporary total disability
As the name indicates, temporary total disability provides disability benefits on a temporary basis for those individuals who become completely disabled due to an injury. This benefit is available for various types of injuries, including:
- Paralysis
- Brain injury
- Limb amputation
- Neurological disorder
- Total blindness
According to the workers’ compensation regulations, these benefits may last for up to 400 weeks, unless the accident results in a catastrophic injury. Under this benefit, workers receive up to two-thirds of their working wage.
Permanent partial disability
For those individuals who come to the end of their TTD benefit and are still not able to return to work in their full capacity, permanent partial disability may be available. To determine the amount of the benefit, the SSA considers a few different factors, such as:
- Percentage of disability
- Impairment location
- Worker’s pay rate
These and other factors help to solidify the benefit amount. Workers may begin receiving it once they stop receiving TTD benefits.
Temporary partial disability
Employees who are able to return to work but not at the same capacity may qualify for temporary partial disability. Recipients may receive the benefit for up to 350 weeks, and it covers two-thirds of the difference between their working wage before the accident, and the new wage in the modified position. In some cases, once the benefit runs out, employees may be able to receive PPD.
It is important that workers fully understand their options with regard to work-related injuries. Along with reviewing the different benefits, it may be helpful to consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney.
