A workplace injury can leave a worker facing uncertainty regarding their health, income and future employment. Workers in any industry, including construction, healthcare, transportation or an office setting, may face a long recovery period after an injury. During a difficult time, these benefits can help workers get some financial help while they recover.
Many injured workers do not understand the difference between temporary and permanent disability benefits. Injured workers need to know their rights, as it helps them receive financial and medical support after an injury.
Difference between temporary and permanent disability benefits
Temporary disability benefits may be available when an injured worker will eventually return to work after recovering from their injury. These benefits provide the workers with the necessary financial support to account for the lost wages. Temporary disability benefits generally:
- Replace a portion of lost wages during recovery from a workplace injury
- Apply for short-term injury and required healing time
- May vary, based on state workers’ comp rules
Whereas permanent disability benefits are available when an injured worker has a long-lasting injury that affects their ability to return to work long-term. These benefits:
- Apply when injuries cause long-lasting impairments
- Continues for extended periods depending on the injury
- May impact future earning capacity and employment opportunities
These are key differences between temporary and permanent disabilities.
Legal guidance to help protect the claim
Understanding the difference between temporary and permanent disability benefits is important to protect one’s future. Keeping detailed records of all hospital visits and medical records of work restrictions that resulted from the injury may help support the claim. Timely notification to the employer is very important, as it helps begin the medical evaluation and claims process. It is also important to maintain records related to compensation and benefits. Seeking legal guidance may help in getting the benefits that workers are entitled to.