Returning to work after an injury can be a positive step in your recovery, but it often comes with questions about your workers’ compensation benefits. You might be worried that going back might mean losing financial support.
It is a valid concern—after all, these benefits are crucial during the healing process. However, you might be relieved to hear that, in most cases, workers still receive benefits after returning to work.
Nevertheless, you might still have questions about what kind of benefits you will receive as you continue recovering. Here is some information that might provide some clarity.
Replacement income for lost wages
What if your doctor restricts you from doing any kind of work? Or what if they allow you to go back to work with modified duties, but your employer cannot make accommodations?
In such cases, you may qualify for the Temporary Total (TT) Compensation benefit. This benefit helps replace lost income due to a work-related disability. Usually, this is the first type of compensation you will receive in Ohio.
TT Compensation benefits will end if at least one of the following occurs:
- You go back to work
- Your workers’ comp doctor says that you can return to your previous position
- Your employer makes employment available within your physical limits or restrictions
- You have reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), which means further recovery is unlikely, with or without treatment
- You are incarcerated
- You leave your job voluntarily
Note that even if you go back to work, you may still qualify for other types of compensation.
Supplemental income for reduced pay
Your doctor may give you the green light to go back to work but with certain restrictions. For example, your injury might prevent you from lifting heavy objects or standing for long hours.
Your employer may be able to accommodate those restrictions. However, what if the pay is less than your pre-injury income?
In that case, you may be eligible for Wage Loss (WL) benefits, which will compensate you for reduced pay. These benefits could apply if you take a lower-paying job at your current employer or a new one.
Don’t rush yourself to go back to work
Returning to work before you are truly ready can lead to delayed healing or even reinjury. That said, it is always a good idea to give yourself enough time. Work closely with your doctor to ensure you are well enough to return.
Moreover, consider talking to a workers’ comp attorney who can help you understand the benefits you are entitled to. They can guide you through the claims process and help you address any issues that may arise.