What Kind of Benefits Can I Expect if My Workers’ Compensation Claim is Approved?

What Kind of Benefits Can I Expect if My Workers’ Compensation Claim is Approved?

The benefits you can expect when your workers’ comp claim is approved depend on your unique situation. Still, when you work with seasoned workers’ comp attorneys, you can expect to receive compensation for your injuries. From temporary disability benefits to death and burial benefits, here are the different benefits you could possibly receive. 

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Related Article: Navigating the Workers’ Compensation Process: A Guide When Your Claim is Accepted

Temporary Disability Benefits

One of the most immediate needs after a workplace injury is financial support for lost wages. If your claim is approved, you may qualify for temporary disability (TD) benefits, which are calculated based on your average earnings.

• How Are TD Payments Calculated?
  The disability rate is determined by looking at your earnings from one year prior to your injury.
• What If I Have Multiple Jobs?
  If you’re disabled from more than one job, your payments will reflect the combined income from all affected jobs.
• What If My Employer Can’t Accommodate Restrictions?
  If your doctor places work restrictions that your employer cannot meet, you are still entitled to TD benefits while you recover.

These payments provide critical financial stability, allowing you to focus on healing.

Related Article: How Do Temporary Disability Benefits Work?

Permanent Disability Benefits

If your injury leaves you with long-term limitations, you may receive permanent disability (PD) benefits. These payments compensate for lost earning potential due to a lasting impairment (People v. Gillard, 57 Cal. App. 4th 136).

The amount you receive depends on:

• The severity of your disability.
• Your age, occupation, and ability to return to work.
• Your permanent disability rating.

PD benefits ensure you’re financially supported as you adapt to your new circumstances.

Related Article: How Your Work-Related Permanent Disability Rating May Receive Additional Compensation

Medical Benefits

Medical benefits are often one of the biggest concerns for people who are asking: What kind of benefits can I expect if my workers’ compensation claim is approved? And for good reason. Medical care is a cornerstone of workers’ compensation because it ensures that injured workers receive the treatment necessary to recover or manage their injuries. Approved claims cover:

• Doctor visits
• Hospital stays and surgeries
• Physical therapy
• Prescription medications
• Medical equipment

California law mandates that these benefits address any treatments needed to cure or relieve the effects of your workplace injury (Del Taco v. Workers' Comp. Appeals Bd., 79 Cal. App. 4th 1437).

Vocational Rehabilitation and Job Retraining

If your injury prevents you from returning to your previous role, vocational rehabilitation benefits can help you reenter the workforce. These may include:

• Job search assistance
• On-the-job training
• Tuition for educational programs
• Maintenance benefits during your retraining period

Our team will ensure you explore every opportunity to transition into meaningful employment (Rodgers v. Workers Compensation Appeals Bd. of California).

Life Pension Benefits

Workers with a permanent disability rating of 70% or higher may qualify for additional financial support through life pension benefits. These provide long-term security for those with severe injuries (§ 3.09 Wages and Benefits).

Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits

If you are unable to return to your previous job due to your injury, you may receive a voucher for retraining or skill enhancement under the supplemental job displacement program. This benefit helps you gain new skills and pursue new career paths (§ 3.09 Wages and Benefits).

Death Benefits and Burial Expenses

In the unfortunate event of a workplace fatality, workers’ compensation provides:

• Financial support to dependents
• Coverage for burial expenses

These benefits aim to ease the financial burden on surviving family members during a difficult time.

Related Article: What Do I Need to Know About a Death Claim with California Workers’ Compensation Laws?

Protection from Retaliation

California law protects workers from discrimination or retaliation for filing a workers’ compensation claim. Under Section 132a of the California Labor Code, you have the right to pursue benefits without fear of unfair treatment (§ 5401. Claim form and notice of potential eligibility for benefits).

Every Case is Unique

Ultimately, there’s no singular answer to the query: What kind of benefits can I expect if my workers’ compensation claim is approved? It’s important to remember that the benefits you receive will depend on your specific circumstances, including the nature of your injury and your ability to return to work. While the process can be complex, you don’t have to face it alone.

Related Article: Hurt on the Job? An Attorney from SoCal Workers Comp Can Help

How SoCal Workers Comp Attorneys Can Help

At SoCal Workers Comp Attorneys, we are dedicated to ensuring injured workers understand and receive all the benefits after workers’ comp claim approval. 

Still, there’s much more at play if you’re asking yourself, What kind of benefits can I expect if my workers’ compensation claim is approved? And we are here to help.

The California workers’ comp benefits explained in this guide are just the beginning—our experienced team will advocate for your rights, handle the complexities of your claim, and ensure you don’t miss out on what you’re entitled to.

Take the First Step Toward Your Recovery

So, now you know the answer if you were wondering: What kind of benefits can I expect if my workers’ compensation claim is approved? The answer depends on your unique situation. If you have questions about your claim or need help navigating the workers’ compensation system, contact us today for a free consultation. Let us guide you with empathy, expertise, and a commitment to your well-being. Your recovery is our priority.

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