If you’ve been injured on the job in Georgia, understanding your rights under the state’s workers’ compensation system is crucial, especially when it comes to the types of disability benefits available. The Georgia workers’ compensation program provides several forms of income benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries, but those benefits can differ greatly depending on the severity and duration of the injury. Two of the most common categories are temporary and permanent disability benefits. Here’s what you need to know about each and how they are calculated.
Temporary Disability Benefits
Temporary disability benefits are designed to support injured workers who are unable to work temporarily while recovering from their injury. These are further divided into two types: Temporary Total Disability (TTD) and Temporary Partial Disability (TPD).
Temporary Total Disability (TTD)
If your doctor determines you are completely unable to work during your recovery, you may qualify for TTD benefits. These benefits begin after a seven-day waiting period, though you can receive payment for those initial seven days if you are out of work for 21 consecutive days.
Calculation:
TTD benefits are calculated as two-thirds (66 2/3%) of your average weekly wage, up to the maximum rate set by law. As of July 1, 2023, the maximum TTD benefit in Georgia is $800 per week.
Duration:
You can receive TTD benefits for up to 400 weeks from the date of injury. However, if your injury is deemed catastrophic, such as severe burns, spinal cord injuries or amputations, you may be eligible for benefits beyond the 400-week limit.
Temporary Partial Disability (TPD)
If you’re able to return to work but only in a limited capacity—perhaps part-time or in a lower-paying position—you may qualify for TPD benefits.
Calculation:
TPD benefits are calculated as two-thirds of the difference between your pre-injury and post-injury wages, up to the maximum amount allowed. As of 2023, the cap is $533 per week.
Duration:
TPD benefits are available for up to 350 weeks from the date of injury.
Permanent Disability Benefits
Once you have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI), meaning your condition is not expected to improve with further treatment, your doctor will evaluate whether you have any permanent impairments. If so, you may be entitled to permanent disability benefits.
These benefits fall into two main categories: Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) and Permanent Total Disability (PTD).
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)
PPD benefits are available if you suffer a permanent impairment but are still able to work in some capacity. The amount and duration of PPD benefits depend on the type and severity of the impairment.
Calculation:
PPD benefits are also based on two-thirds of your average weekly wage, but they are paid out for a specific number of weeks according to a schedule established by Georgia law. For example:
- Loss of an arm: up to 225 weeks
- Loss of a leg: up to 225 weeks
- Loss of a hand: up to 160 weeks
- Loss of hearing or vision: varies
Your doctor assigns an impairment rating, which determines how many of those weeks you’re eligible to receive compensation.
Know Your Rights and Protect Your Future
Navigating Georgia’s workers’ compensation system can be overwhelming, especially when you’re also dealing with the physical and emotional toll of an injury. Whether you’re unsure which category of disability benefits applies to your case or need help challenging an unfair denial, having experienced legal guidance can make all the difference.
At Farrar, Hennesy and Tanner, we’ve helped countless injured workers across Georgia secure the compensation they deserve. Our experienced attorneys understand how to evaluate medical records, negotiate with insurance carriers and fight for the full range of benefits to which you’re entitled.
If you or a loved one has been injured on the job, don’t attempt to take on the system alone. Call Farrar, Hennesy and Tanner today at 912-384-2287 or request a free case review online to find out how we can help you move forward.