TTD Benefits Attorney in Sacramento, California

If you’re here, you might be dealing with a workplace injury and wondering how to support yourself while you recover. Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits could be your answer.  

TTD refers to benefits provided to workers who are unable to work due to a work-related injury or illness. These benefits are designed to replace a portion of your lost wages while you recover. The key term here is "temporary." These benefits cover you while you’re unable to perform your job duties but are expected to make a full recovery and return to work. 

The amount you receive from TTD benefits is typically a percentage of your average weekly wage prior to the injury, often around two-thirds of your regular pay. These benefits, however, are subject to both minimum and maximum limits, which can vary by state or jurisdiction.  

Besides, TTD benefits are usually tax-free, which can make a significant difference in your take-home pay compared to your regular income. These payments continue until your doctor determines you have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI) or can return to work in some capacity. 

If you or someone you know has been injured at work and needs help with claiming workers' compensation, call me today for a free consultation. The Law Office of Cezar J. Torrez serves clients throughout East Sacramento, Oak Park, South Natomas, North Sacramento, West Sacramento, North Natomas, Arden-Arcade, Rosemont, Lemon Hill, Pocket, and Riverview.  

How Temporary Total Disability Works

1. Report your injury to your employer as soon as possible. Prompt reporting is crucial to ensuring your eligibility for benefits. 

2. Seek medical attention right away. A healthcare provider will assess your injury and provide a medical report. 

3. File a workers’ compensation claim that includes your medical report and other relevant documentation. 

4. Receive benefits if your claim is approved. These typically amount to two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to the maximum limit set by law.  

5. Comply with your medical treatment plan meticulously. Failure to attend appointments, follow medical advice, or engage in prescribed rehabilitation can jeopardize your benefits. 

6. Provide regular updates or additional medical documentation to demonstrate that you are still unable to work. This evidence is essential for the continuation of your benefits. 

7. Rehabilitation and work restrictions might happen eventually. If your condition improves, your doctor might release you to work with restrictions. In this case, you might transition from TTD benefits to other types of workers’ compensation benefits, like Temporary Partial Disability (TPD). 

8. Regularly communicate with your employer about your condition and recovery progress. This can help you transition back to work more smoothly when you are ready. 

9. Legal assistance may be necessary to handle your workers’ compensation claim. An attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure that you receive all the benefits to which you are entitled. 

Temporary Total Disability Laws in California

In California, the laws surrounding TTD benefits are designed to protect workers and ensure they receive the support they need. Here are some important points to consider: 

• Waiting period: There is a three-day waiting period before TTD benefits begin. However, if you're off work for more than 14 days or are hospitalized overnight, the waiting period is waived. 

• Duration of benefits: TTD benefits can continue for up to 104 weeks within a period of five years from the date of your injury. In some cases, benefits may be extended to 240 weeks. 

• Medical evaluations: Periodic medical evaluations may be required to determine the extent of your disability and your ability to return to work. 

• Payment schedule: TTD benefits are typically paid every two weeks. Receiving payments on time is important to maintaining financial stability during recovery. 

• Eligibility requirements: To qualify for TTD benefits, a doctor must certify that your injury prevents you from performing your job duties.  

• Return to work offer: If your employer offers you a modified or alternative job that accommodates your medical restrictions and you decline the offer, your TTD benefits may be affected. You should carefully consider work offers and seek guidance from your healthcare provider or attorney if needed. 

• Death benefits: TTD benefits cease in cases where a work-related injury results in death, and death benefits may be provided to dependents. 

• Dispute resolution: If there is a dispute regarding your TTD benefits, you can request a hearing before the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB). 

• Penalties for late payments: If your employer or the insurance company fails to pay your TTD benefits on time, penalties may be imposed.