This article was updated on 12/09/2024
Temporary disability benefits provides you with payments to aid you in your recovery when you get inflicted with an injury during your job. Many who prepare for it do not realize it, and many who think they qualify do not meet the requirements! In this article, we want to dive deeper into temporary disability to help you understand what it is about and how you can access it:
1. Qualifying for temporary disability benefits
How do you exactly qualify for temporary disability benefits? Once you file a valid workers' compensation settlement for temporary disability and a doctor has deemed you cannot return to work due to the injury, you may qualify for temporary disability.
However, what would happen if the insurance provider disagreed with your doctor's reports? If that's the case, you need to look for a qualified medical evaluator and undergo an evaluation to prove your claims. This third party will be responsible for giving an unbiased opinion about your injury, and their decision will determine whether you qualify for temporary disability benefits.
2. When you’ll receive temporary disability benefits
Your first payment from the temporary disability benefits should start within two weeks after the doctor has deemed you unable to work and that you have filed for the benefit.
On that note, if your injury has stopped you from working for over two weeks, retroactive benefits will kick in starting the day you get injured. This benefit generally lasts 104 weeks in California. But depending on the specifics of the injury, you can have up to 240 weeks' worth of retroactive payments.
3. Amount received from temporary disability benefits
The amount you receive from the temporary disability benefits will depend on your wages. Mostly, temporary disability benefits only pay two-thirds of your total wages. Take note that in California, there will be a maximum limit to the amount you can receive, and change every year.
In other words, the amount you get from your temporary disability benefit will differ from what others may receive. If you try to understand how much you get, working with a workers' compensation lawyer can help you know what you can expect.
Conclusion
In summary, temporary disability benefits are something you can access to provide you with the money you would have earned if you were still working had you not been injured. It can help alleviate some of your financial burdens.
If you are going to file for temporary disability benefits, we recommend working with a professional lawyer. That is an expert on the subject. They help to determine the amount you should be getting and improve your chances of successfully qualifying for the benefit. As a result, to ensure you get the financial support you need during your recovery.
Pacific Workers are the best workers' compensation lawyers in Northern California, offering the support clients need to successfully claim.
About the author
Bilal Kassem President and Co-founder
Introducing Bilal Kassem, the visionary leader of Pacific Workers. His unwavering commitment to excellence, empowering others at the core of our organization. With a flair for creativity, Bilal infuses fresh ideas into every initiative we take.
Drawing inspiration from captivating stories like “Goosebumps”, he guides our team with determination. Beyond his professional endeavors, Bilal embraces the great outdoors. As a result, relishing adventures such as backpacking and exploring uncharted territories. Sushi is his preferred treat, nourishing both his body and spirit.
In his free time, he enjoys hitting the gym and indulging in blockbuster films. Also, he finds motivation in the legacies of historical figures like George Patton. By leading with empathy, Bilal fosters a supportive atmosphere. This is why every team member feels empowered to excel.