How Long Can I Be on Workers’ Comp in Wisconsin?
If you’ve been injured on the job, workers’ compensation benefits can cover your medical expenses and a portion of your lost wages while you recover. Generally, workers’ compensation wage loss benefits fall into two main categories: temporary and permanent. Each has its own rules and limits for how long benefits may last. You have the right to consult a Wisconsin workers’ comp attorney to help you understand your options or to represent you if there is a dispute or denial.
Duration of Workers’ Comp Benefits in Wisconsin
The exact duration can vary depending on the nature of your injury and the course of your treatment.
Temporary Disability Benefits
Temporary Total Disability (TTD) and Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) benefits help you financially while recovering and unable to work at full capacity. The primary difference between the two:
- TTD covers two-thirds of your average weekly earnings if you cannot work entirely.
- TPD compensates you for two-thirds of the difference between your pre-injury wages and your current wages from lighter duties or reduced hours.
In Wisconsin, TTD and TPD benefits typically last until one of the following applies to your situation:
- A doctor determines you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). This means your condition has reached a point where it is unlikely to improve further, even if you are not fully recovered.
- You can return to work at your full capacity.
Permanent Disability Benefits
If your injury results in a permanent impairment, you may qualify for Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) or Permanent Total Disability (PTD) benefits:
- PPD covers partial impairments that resulted from your work injury.
- PTD provides benefits for more severe cases where returning to any type of gainful employment is not possible.
PPD payments are calculated based on your wage, the percentage of impairment of your injured body part, and the schedule of weeks allotted to each party in the statute. If you cannot work in any capacity, you could receive PTD benefits for life.
The Benefits of Working with an Attorney for Your Workers’ Comp Claim
You should not have to pay for medical care out of your pocket for covered workplace injuries. However, you could experience problems regarding the duration of your benefits, or even the validity of your claim. Insurers may dispute the claim, delay payments, or even deny benefits altogether. Should this happen to you, working with an experienced workers’ comp attorney offers several benefits:
- They can collect and present evidence of the nature, extent, and severity of your injury.
- They can file an appeal and represent you if the insurance company denies your claim.
- They can help streamline the filing process.
- They can reduce your stress during an already traumatic time.
Contact the Law Office of Lisa A. Wiebusch for a Free Consultation
The Law Office of Lisa A. Wiebusch, LLC, serves injured workers in Wausau and throughout Wisconsin. For personalized guidance with your claim or appeal, reach out today for a free consultation. Get the support you need to protect your rights and focus on your recovery.
