The types of workers’ compensation benefits available in California

While workers’ compensation is available to injured workers in all states, the laws differ slightly depending on which state you work in. Depending on the circumstances of the injury and the extent to which it has affected your ability to work, you may be entitled to certain benefits, from the complete coverage of medical care to sponsored educational programs to help you to get a new job.

In California, there are five main types of workers’ compensation benefits. Your situation may only entitle you to one form of workers’ compensation benefits, or if you have been severely affected by your injury, you may be entitled to more. The following is an overview of these.

Medical care

You have the right to receive compensation for all medical treatment you need after a work-related injury. This could include hospitalization stays, physical therapies or any other necessary care.

Temporary disability benefits

If you have to take more than three days off work to gain treatment and recover from your injury, you will be entitled to temporary disability benefits. To gain these benefits, a physician must confirm that you are unable to work because of your injuries.

Permanent disability benefits

If you become permanently injured as a result of the accident at work and unable to work in the foreseeable future, you may be eligible for permanent disability benefits. The amount you will be able to receive will depend on a number of factors pertaining to your injury.

Supplemental job displacement benefits

If you need to retrain for a new job or a new career path, you may be able to gain benefits to help you retrain.

Death benefits

If a person dies as a result of their injuries at work, surviving dependents may be able to gain support payments over a period of time.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a California workplace, make sure that action is taken so that you can gain the workers’ compensation damages that you deserve.