California workers’ compensation and disability benefits are two different types of benefits available to workers who are unable to work due to an injury or illness. Often times injured workers confuse these two California benefits and place them in the same category. We are here to let you to know that there is a difference.
We put together a short list of the main differences between workers’ compensation benefits and disability benefits in California.
Eligibility
Workers’ compensation benefits are available to employees who are injured on the job. They are also available to employees who develop an occupational illness due to their work.
Disability benefits, on the other hand, are available to workers who are unable to work due to an injury or illness that is not work-related.
Coverage
Workers’ compensation benefits cover medical expenses, lost wages, and disability payments for temporary or permanent disabilities related to a work injury or illness. They can also cover death benefits if death occurs due to their work.
Disability benefits cover lost wages and some medical expenses for non-work-related disabilities.
Application Process
To apply for workers’ compensation benefits, the injured worker must notify their employer of the injury, fill out a claim form, and provide medical evidence to support their claim.
Disability benefits are administered by the state of California and require the worker to apply through the state’s Employment Development Department.
Benefit Amount
Workers’ compensation benefits typically pay two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage, up to a maximum amount set by law.
Disability benefits pay a percentage of the worker’s earnings, up to a maximum amount set by law.
Conclusion
In conclusion, workers’ compensation benefits are available to employees who are injured or become ill on the job, while disability benefits are available to workers who become disabled due to a non-work-related injury or illness.
Both programs provide financial support to help workers cover medical expenses and lost wages, but the eligibility requirements and application processes differ.
If you need help determining which benefits you should be receiving contact Navarro Law Firm at (619) 640-9200, or fill out our free consultation form. We’ve been helping people in and around San Diego for over 30 years.