If you’ve been injured at work in Minnesota, it is natural to question whether workers’ compensation will help cover your lost wages. The short answer is yes. However, there are some important details a workers’ compensation lawyer can explain about lost wages after an injury.
What Is Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that employers in Minnesota are required to carry. If you get injured while doing your job, workers’ comp can cover your medical bills and a portion of your lost income. It’s meant to support you while you recover. If your employer did not have work comp insurance, there are state programs that can step in to provide benefits.
To get wage loss benefits (or any benefits provided by work comp), you do not have to prove any specific wrongdoing by your employer. You just need to show that you were hurt on the job.
When Does Workers’ Comp Pay for Lost Wages?
If your injury keeps you from working, or if you can only work fewer hours or in a lower-paying role, workers’ comp may cover some of your lost wages. In Minnesota, this comes in the form of wage-loss benefits. There are a few types of wage-loss benefits you might receive, including:
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD) – If you can’t work at all while you recover, TTD benefits may be available. These benefits are meant to replace part of your paycheck until your doctor says you can return to work, either fully or with restrictions.
- Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) – Sometimes, an injury doesn’t stop you from working completely, but you can’t do the same job or earn the same amount of money. If your injury forces you into a lower-paying job or fewer hours, TPD benefits can help make up the difference in income.
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) – If your injury causes lasting damage that affects part of your body, even after treatment, you may qualify for PPD benefits. These are based on a rating given by your doctor that reflects how much permanent loss of use you’ve suffered.
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD) – If you are hurt so badly that you can never return to any kind of work, PTD benefits may be available. These benefits provide income support long-term.
How Are Wage-Loss Benefits Calculated?
In Minnesota, wage-loss benefits are usually based on your average weekly wage before the injury. The exact amount you receive will depend on what kind of benefit applies and how much you were earning at the time of the accident. For example, TTD benefits are typically 2/3 of your average weekly wage, up to a certain limit. It’s not a full paycheck, but it’s meant to help keep you afloat while you recover.
What if Your Benefits Are Delayed or Denied?
Sometimes, workers face delays in getting their wage-loss checks. Other times, their claims are denied completely. This can be frustrating, especially when you’re in pain and the bills keep coming.
If your benefits are late or denied, you have the right to ask for help. It may involve providing more medical records, attending an exam, or challenging the insurance company’s decision. You shouldn’t give up just because your claim runs into trouble.
Common Injuries That Lead to Wage-Loss Benefits
Some of the most common workplace injuries we see include back injuries, herniated or bulging discs, shoulder and knee damage, wrist or hand injuries, hip problems, and repetitive-use trauma. These types of injuries can make it hard to lift, bend, walk, sit, or even type. If your injury affects your ability to do your job, wage-loss benefits may apply.
You Don’t Have to Face This Alone
If you’ve been injured at work and are missing paychecks because of it, call Meshbesher Law Firm. Our workers’ compensation attorney serving Minnesota will explain your rights and fight for the wage-loss benefits you deserve. You don’t have to figure this out on your own. We’re here to support you.
