Most states require every employer to provide worker’s compensation coverage to almost all of their employees, regardless of how long they’ve been with the company or whether they’re full time. But what if an injured worker is past the age of retirement or becomes eligible for retirement benefits before recovering from their injuries? Rules governing whether injured employees can collect both worker’s compensation and retirement benefits vary from state to state, which can make finding answers to these questions extremely complex.

Worker’s Compensation & Retirement Benefits in Montana

In most cases, workers who have reached retirement age may collect benefits if they’re expected to recover sufficiently enough to return to work. So you won’t be forced into retirement for injuring your back at work or suffering a fall on the stairs.

Injuries Resulting in Partial Disability

If your injuries are severe enough to make returning to your previous position impossible, worker’s compensation insurance may pay for any loss of earning potential you’ve suffered. Even if you’ve reached retirement age, you may continue to receive partial permanent disability payments for as long as you continue working.

Total Disability & Retirement Benefits

The situation becomes more complex if you’re totally disabled as a result of your injuries and qualify for retirement benefits. In Montana, workers are not allowed to collect benefits for a total permanent disability and Social Security retirement at the same time. For most workers, the worker’s compensation benefits continue until they qualify for Social Security or an alternative system. If you’ve already reached retirement age and have put off collecting benefits, worker’s compensation won’t provide wage replacement benefits, although you may still receive necessary health care.

If you’ve been hurt at work or have developed a medical condition related to your working conditions, let Bothe And Lauridsen put their claims resolution experience to work for you. For over 30 years, they’ve been northwest Montana’s premier worker’s compensation firm, helping injured employees across the region navigate the process and collect the benefits they deserve. Visit their website for more on their worker’s compensation expertise, or call (406) 892-2193 now to schedule a consultation with an accomplished attorney.