How Long Can You Get Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Delaware County?
If you’ve been hurt on the job, one of the biggest questions on your mind may be: How long can I receive workers’ compensation benefits? It’s a fair and essential question, especially when your ability to work is uncertain and your bills are piling up.
At Schmidt, Kirifides, Rassias & Rio, we help injured workers in Delaware County understand their rights under Pennsylvania law and get the benefits they’re entitled to for as long as they need them. Here’s what you need to know about the duration of workers’ compensation benefits in Pennsylvania.
Wage Loss Benefits: How Long Do They Last?
In Pennsylvania, workers’ compensation provides wage loss benefits to employees who are unable to work or can only work in a limited capacity due to a job-related injury or illness. These benefits typically cover about two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a state-mandated maximum. The length of time you can receive wage loss benefits depends on how your injury is classified:
Temporary Total Disability (TTD)
If your injury leaves you completely unable to work, you may receive TTD benefits. There is no fixed time limit for how long these benefits can continue; however, after 104 weeks (approximately two years), you may be required to undergo an Impairment Rating Evaluation (IRE).
If the IRE finds that your level of impairment is less than 35%, your benefits may be converted to Partial Disability, which can continue for a maximum of 500 weeks (about 9.5 years). If your impairment is 35% or greater, you may continue receiving TTD.
Partial Disability
Partial Disability benefits are available if you can work in some capacity but are earning less than you did before the injury. These benefits are limited to 500 weeks, regardless of your level of income loss.
Medical Benefits: No Time Limit, But Conditions Apply
Medical benefits under Pennsylvania workers’ compensation are designed to cover all reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to your work injury. This includes doctor visits, surgeries, prescriptions, therapy, and medical equipment.
There is no time limit on how long you can receive medical treatment, as long as the care remains related to your injury and continues to be deemed necessary. However, disputes over whether a treatment is “reasonable” or “work-related” are common. Insurers may request Utilization Reviews to challenge ongoing treatment. It’s critical to have a workers’ compensation attorney from our firm on your side if you’re facing pushback from the insurance company.
When Do Workers’ Compensation Benefits End?
Your benefits may stop under any of the following circumstances:
- You return to work at full wages
- Settle with the insurance company
- A judge rules that your injury no longer prevents you from working.
- Your impairment rating is below 35% and you’ve exhausted 500 weeks of partial disability
- You fail to comply with required medical exams or vocational assessments
- If you pass away, death benefits may be available to dependents
If your benefits are suspended or terminated, you have the right to challenge the decision, but strict timelines apply, and legal representation is essential to protecting your claim.
Get Help From Experienced Workers’ Compensation Lawyers
The Pennsylvania workers’ compensation system is complex and can feel stacked against injured workers. Insurance companies often try to reduce the length of time you receive benefits or pressure you into settling too soon. Don’t go through it alone.
At Schmidt, Kirifides, Rassias & Rio, we’ve dedicated our careers to standing up for hardworking people throughout Delaware County. Whether you’re just starting your claim or worried your benefits may end prematurely, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Call us today at 610-892-9300 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and make sure your future is protected.