Worker’s Compensation benefits are important if you are injured or become ill on the job. Understand the benefits you’re eligible to receive so you know what to expect if you need to file a Workers’ Compensation claim.
What Workers’ Compensation Benefits Cover
Your Workers’ Compensation benefits cover several expenses.
• Payments for time off work as you recover
• Temporary or permanent disability compensation
• Job retraining
• Death payment to beneficiaries
When Workers’ Compensation Benefits Start
Some of your Workers’ Compensation benefits start immediately. Depending on your state, your employer may cover your medical bills right away, even before your claim is approved.
After your claim is approved, you are eligible to receive the other relevant Workers’ Compensation benefits. However, you may need a letter from your physician stating that you need to be off work, are disabled or require job training before you receive those benefits.
The Financial Amount of Benefits You Will Receive
Expect to have all of your medical bills covered by your Workers’ Compensation benefits. The total of your lost wages or temporary disability payments is typically 66-2/3 percent of your normal wages, depending on your state’s Workers’ Compensation laws.
How to Receive Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Always report injuries or illness right away, and file a Workers’ Compensation claim as soon as possible. Then visit an approved Workers’ Compensation doctor for treatment. These steps increase the likelihood that your bills will be paid by your Workers’ Compensation insurance.
Once your claim is approved, your medical bills are typically paid directly to the providers. You’ll receive disability, lost wage or job training payments via direct deposit or check weekly, bi-monthly or monthly.
How Long You Will Receive Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Worker’s Compensation benefits typically last until you no longer need them. For example, when your doctor determines that you are well enough to return to work, you will stop receiving payment for lost wages.
Also, you will stop receiving Workers’ Compensation benefits if your claim is closed or settled. A settled claim could include a pension, permanent disability compensation or structured settlement agreement.
What to do if Your Workers’ Compensation Claim is Denied
If you file a Workers’ Compensation claim and it’s denied, file an appeal. You can contact a lawyer for help and begin collecting data that supports your claim as you seek the benefits you think you deserve.
Workers’ Compensation benefits provide you with financial resources as you recover from an injury or illness sustained on the job. For specific details on the Workers’ Compensation benefits you are eligible to receive, check your employee handbook or talk to your Human Resources manager or insurance agent.
