Temporary disability benefits are an extension of workers’ compensation benefits for people who sustained a workplace injury.
Unlike other disability benefits, TD benefits only provide coverage during recovery and stop when you are able to return to work.
How do temporary disability benefits work?
In the event of a workplace injury, you can file a workers’ compensation claim to secure insurance coverage for all necessary medical treatment. If your injury hinders you from returning to work for an extended period, you may qualify for temporary disability payments once you have a note from your doctor saying you cannot perform your job.
TD benefits follow a biweekly payment schedule and will continue until your doctor examines you and clears you to return to your job. If you have an issue receiving a payment, you can file a complaint, requiring the administrator to add 10% to your late payment.
Who qualifies for temporary disability?
TD benefits can be partial or total depending on how your injury affects your ability to work. For example:
- Total temporary disability benefits are for employees who are unable to fulfill their job duties in any capacity while recovering.
- Partial temporary disability benefits are for people who can work at least a portion of their typical full-time schedule.
Throughout the recovery process, you will need to see a policy-approved doctor for regular screenings so your physician can assess when you are ready to return to your job.
California established the temporary disability benefits program to enhance workers’ compensation coverage for people with severe injuries and extended recovery time.