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Partial vs. total disability benefits in workers’ comp claims

On Behalf of | Apr 2, 2023 | Workers' Compensation

Disability benefits are an important safety net for workers who cannot perform their job due to an injury or illness. In Pennsylvania, the Workers’ Compensation program provides disability benefits, including partial replacement wages, to eligible workers.

In Pennsylvania, disability benefits are provided through the state’s Workers’ Compensation program. Workers are either placed in a “partial” or “total” disability status while they receive benefits. Here’s what that means:

Total disability benefits

Total disability benefits are paid to workers who cannot perform any work due to a work-related injury or illness. The benefits are paid at a rate of two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage, up to a maximum amount set by the state. After a set period of time (104) weeks, the worker may be required to go through an exam to see if their status should be changed.

Partial disability benefits

Partial disability benefits are paid to workers who can perform some work but have a reduced earning capacity due to a work-related injury or illness. The benefits are paid at a rate of two-thirds of the difference between the worker’s pre-injury average weekly wage and their post-injury earning capacity, up to a maximum amount set by the state. Partial disability benefits can last for a maximum of 500 weeks, but you can request a review at that point to see if your status should be changed to “total” disability.

Workers should understand their rights regarding workers’ compensation benefits in Pennsylvania. Understanding more about the terminology used and what that means for your situation can make it easier to know what’s happening with your case. If your claim isn’t going as expected, it may be time to get some legal guidance.