What Is the Difference Between Workers' Compensation and Disability Benefits?
If you’ve been injured at work, you may be wondering what benefits you are entitled to and whether you qualify for workers' compensation or disability benefits. While both types of benefits provide financial assistance, they serve different purposes and have distinct eligibility requirements. In this blog post, we’ll compare workers' compensation and disability benefits, so you can understand which benefits apply to your situation.
Workers' Compensation Benefits
Workers' compensation is a state-mandated program that provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job. https://travisdfvo317.tearosediner.net/how-to-appeal-a-denied-workers-compensation-claim These benefits are designed to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs, and they are typically provided regardless of fault. In North Carolina, workers' compensation is no-fault insurance, meaning you don’t need to prove that your employer was negligent to qualify for benefits.
What Workers' Compensation Covers
Workers' compensation benefits typically include the following:
- Medical Treatment: Coverage for doctor visits, surgery, medication, physical therapy, and other necessary medical treatments related to the injury. Wage Replacement: A portion of your lost wages while you are unable to work due to your injury, usually about two-thirds of your average weekly wage. Rehabilitation Benefits: Assistance with rehabilitation services, such as job retraining or vocational counseling if you're unable to return to your previous job.
Disability Benefits
Disability benefits, on the other hand, are designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to long-term or permanent disabilities. These benefits can be provided through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), both of which are administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). To qualify for disability benefits, you must meet the SSA’s definition of disability, which typically involves being unable to perform any substantial gainful activity due to a physical or mental impairment.
What Disability Benefits Cover
Disability benefits typically cover a portion of your lost income if you’re unable to work due to a disabling condition. Unlike workers' compensation, disability benefits are not tied to a specific job injury and can apply to a range of conditions, including those unrelated to work.
Key Differences Between Workers' Compensation and Disability Benefits
- Eligibility: Workers' compensation is available to workers who are injured on the job, while disability benefits are available to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability, whether it’s work-related or not. Coverage: Workers' compensation covers medical treatment, wage replacement, and rehabilitation for job-related injuries, while disability benefits provide income replacement for individuals unable to work due to disability. Fault: Workers' compensation is no-fault, meaning you don’t need to prove your employer was at fault. Disability benefits are based on the SSA’s definition of disability and are not tied to the cause of your condition.
Conclusion: Get Help from Charlotte Workers' Compensation Lawyers
Understanding the differences between workers' compensation and disability benefits can help you determine which benefits apply to your situation. If you’re struggling to navigate the workers' compensation process or need help applying for disability benefits, Charlotte Workers' Compensation Lawyers are here to assist you. Contact us today for a consultation and ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve!