Understanding Time Loss Benefits in Washington State
Oct. 29, 2024
If you've been injured on the job, you might be eligible for time loss compensation. These benefits are designed to replace lost wages while you recover and are unable to work. Let's dive into how time loss works, how much you could receive, and how to navigate the process.
What Are Time Loss Benefits?
Time loss benefits are a form of wage replacement available to workers who are temporarily unable to work due to a job-related injury or illness. These benefits are part of Washington State’s workers' compensation system, which is managed by the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). These benefits are also called Temporary Total Disability Benefits (TTD).
Eligibility for Time Loss Compensation
To qualify, you must meet these conditions:
Injury or illness is work-related/claim acceptance: The injury must have occurred during the course of your job and your claim must be accepted, or in some cases, at least filed and being evaluated.
Certified inability to work: A healthcare provider must verify that your injury prevents you from returning to work. Generally, this is documented in an Activity Prescription Form.
Certification of worker: You must certify to L&I that you are not working or receiving certain other benefits. This is done with a Worker Verification Form.
How Much Will I Receive?
The amount of time loss compensation is typically calculated based on a percentage of your average monthly wage before the injury. In Washington, you can receive between 60-75% of your gross wages, depending on your marital status and the number of dependents you have. It's important to note that time loss benefits are non-taxable.
How Are Time Loss Payments Issued?
After your claim is accepted and your provider has verified that you can't work, you'll start receiving payments:
Generally, these benefits are paid every two weeks. However, in some cases, they may be paid weekly.
Payments continue until you can return to work or your healthcare provider determines that your condition has become permanent. However, it is not uncommon for L&I to determine that you are able to return to work even when neither you nor your provider agrees.
Common Questions About Time Loss Benefits
How long can I receive time loss compensation? You can receive these benefits for as long as you are unable to work, but you must follow your healthcare provider’s treatment plan and attend regular medical appointments.
What happens if I can return to part-time or light duty work? If your doctor releases you to part-time or light duty work, you may be eligible for wage-loss compensation to make up the difference between your time loss payments and your reduced wages.
What if my claim is denied? If L&I denies your claim, you can file an appeal with the Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals (BIIA). If a claim gets to this point, we would recommend speaking to an attorney who represents injured workers if you have not already done so. It is not uncommon for the assigned judge in a case to make the same recommendation to unrepresented individuals.
How to Maximize Your Benefits
Document everything: Keep detailed records of your injury, treatments, and how your condition impacts your ability to work.
Follow your doctor's advice: Missing appointments or failing to follow prescribed treatments can lead to benefit delays or denial.
Communicate with L&I: Report any changes in your condition or work status immediately to L&I to ensure you receive the correct benefit amount.
Conclusion
Time loss compensation is often the most important benefit available to workers who can no longer work, even temporarily, as a result of a workplace injury. It can often be the difference between staying current on bills, or going into debt. If you’ve been hurt on the job, understanding your rights and navigating the claims process can make a big difference in your recovery. If you have trouble with your claim or need assistance, give us a call, we can help.