Did you know that more than 4.6 million people received injuries that required medical attention and more than 4,000 died in workplace accidents in 2021? Many of these individuals received some form of workers’ compensation benefits.
If you receive an injury at work, you may receive workers’ compensation benefits, but if you experience total permanent disability, you may receive these benefits.
Temporary disability
Even if you are permanently disabled due to a workplace injury, you will collect temporary disability for up to 500 weeks. However, you can request a hearing for long-term total disability status before 500 weeks.
Medical care
Typically, workers’ compensation pays your medical care. If you gain approval for SSDI, you can apply for Medicare, which helps with medical expenses as well.
Settlements
Disability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance companies often offer settlements to those with permanent total disabilities. They have compensation schedules for specific injuries, e.g., the loss of an arm or an illness. These are typically one-time payouts and may include expected future medical care, lost wages and pain and suffering.
Disability insurance
Your employer may offer short- or long-term disability insurance benefits, or you can purchase them yourself. Most insurance companies pay temporary compensation for minor illnesses or injuries under short-term disability. Permanent disability requires long-term insurance. Both try to replace your income and help you meet your monthly expenses.
Social Security Disability
Permanent disability allows you to file for Social Security Disability. Typically, you need to be completely disabled for at least one year before filing. In addition, the process can take a year or more. Your compensation is equivalent to what your Social Security payments would be upon retirement.
Your disability rating and willingness to fight for your benefits significantly impact what you receive. Follow the insurance’s requirements for the best results.