The intent of workers' compensation in Ohio is to cover all costs related to an injury you sustain at work or an illness you develop because of your job.
The benefits you receive depend on the seriousness of the injury or illness and how much time you must take off work.
If you only miss a few days after a workplace accident, charge that time against your paid time off (PTO).
However, if your injury or illness leads to eight or more days off work, you qualify for temporary total compensation benefits from workers’ comp to replace your lost income.
Understanding Ohio Temporary Total Compensation Benefits
The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) defines temporary total disability as “the temporary inability of the injured worker to return to his former position of employment.” If your claim for workers’ comp benefits is approved, your injury-related medical bills will be paid no matter how long you must miss work.
However, temporary total compensation benefits—or reimbursement for PTO already taken—won't start until the eighth day you're off work. If you miss two weeks of work, you'll only be compensated for the second week. If you're away over 14 days, you'll be compensated for all the days you have missed, including the initial week.
If you're approved to return to work under modified conditions and your employer cannot accommodate you, you can remain on temporary total compensation benefits as you continue to improve. It's important to note that getting these benefits doesn't mean you'll receive 100 percent of your wages. Instead, you'll receive between 72 and 66 2/3 percent of your wages, depending on how long you're off. When you return to work, temporary total compensation benefits end. However, you may be eligible for wage loss benefits if your injury causes work restrictions that lead to a reduction in earnings.
Monast Law Office Can Help Maximize Your Benefits
When you're injured on the job and cannot work, you may be eligible for many benefits. Because every case is unique, call us for a strategy session. We can explain your rights and help you pursue the maximum compensation.
|
Related Links: |
