When you get injured on the job and return to work with a permanent disability that keeps you from performing in the same capacity as before, you are eligible for “permanent partial disability,” also called PPD benefits.
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PPD benefits have different computations based on a state’s rules and regulations. There are also other variables in the equation, such as whether or not you are covered by social security. In addition, there are rules on the total amount of compensation you can get for PPD and social security benefits. However, total benefits will not be less than what you are already receiving from social security.
You must always inform your employer of your injury. After you have undergone treatment, your doctor will determine if you have reached “maximal medical improvement.” In simple terms, this is the limit at which treatment can help you. Beyond this limit, you will experience little-to-no benefit.
Upon reaching maximal medical improvement, the workers’ compensation board will rate your disability. That means they will consult a table of injuries and disabilities, and assign your physical capacity a number or percentage. The permanent partial disability rating is used to compute how much or how many weeks of compensation you should get. In some instances, you might receive permanent disability payment for an indefinite period.
After the workers’ compensation board has determined your rating, may be able to negotiate your payment frequencies; usually weekly, bi-weekly, or in an upfront payment.