An on-the-job injury can require considerable recovery time and render a worker unable to return to their job for the foreseeable future. While workers' compensation covers the costs associated with the injury and the medical care to treat it, it can also cover lost wages through disability benefits. However, these benefits are not the same as regular take-home pay. To better understand this subject, here’s what you should know about workers' compensation coverage for lost wages.

Temporary Disability

While workers' comp laws differ slightly from state to state, most areas, including Missouri, require that temporary disability benefits cover two-thirds of a worker's pay. So, if you've been injured at work and need time off, you will not receive your full paycheck. These benefits are only available if the injury requires at least four days off of work. Temporary disability lasts until the worker returns to their job, it is determined that their condition will not improve, or they reach the maximum number of weeks for temporary disability payments.

There are two types of temporary disability. Temporary total disability is for workers who cannot work at all because of their injury, and payments are limited to 400 total weeks. Temporary partial disability is for workers who can still work in some capacity but in a lower-earning position; it pays two-thirds of the difference between the prior position salary and what is currently being made. Temporary partial disability is capped at 100 weeks.

Permanent Disability

If a doctor finds that an injured worker's condition is not likely to improve, the employee may be eligible for permanent disability on either a total or partial basis. This extends the temporary disability benefits discussed above. The exact length one can receive permanent disability and how much they can receive depend on a number of factors, including their regular take-home pay and the severity of the injury itself.

To ensure you have the necessary financial support to recover from a work injury, enlist the services of a workers' compensation attorney. Coyne, Cundiff & Hillemann, P.C. has more than 75 years of combined experience representing clients throughout the St. Charles County, MO, region. They offer legal services in workers' compensation, personal injury, family law, and criminal cases. Call (636) 561-5599 or visit them online to schedule a free consultation.