If you are injured while working and are unable to perform any work, you may be eligible for total disability benefits. This way, you can meet your needs while recovering.
Here is what to know about total disability benefits:
Two-thirds of an employee’s weekly wage
In Pennsylvania, an employee who is unable to work due to an injury or illness is paid two-thirds of their average weekly wage. These payments are tax-free.
Paid for the duration of disability
Total disability benefits are paid for the duration of disability. The payments can end when an employee:
- Achieves medical recovery with no restrictions
- Can return to full, pre-employment injury
- Is medically able to perform other tasks available to them with no loss in earnings
Although not common, an employee can receive total disability benefits for life if they don’t meet the requirements.
After 104 weeks of receiving total disability benefits, an employer or their insurer may require an employee to submit a medical examination to determine the extent of permanent impairment. A physician will examine the employee’s symptoms and may perform some tests to assign a rating.
An employee’s impairment rating should be 50% or higher to continue receiving benefits. If their rating is less than 50%, they will be deemed partially disabled. Accordingly, they will receive partial disability benefits, which can be awarded for a maximum period of 500 weeks. A partially disabled employee can work, but not their regular duties. Thus, they can be given light duties at reduced wages.
Total disability benefits are vital for employees who can’t perform any duty after sustaining a work-related injury or contracting an occupational disease. Get legal help to learn more about your case and increase your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.