One moment, you are just trying to get work done and call it a day, and the next, you slip or fall, and an unexpected injury leaves you unable to work. You know all about workers’ compensation, but given the severity of your injury, you might wonder how soon before your benefits kick in.
How long is the processing time?
After you report your injury, your employer has seven days (excluding Sundays and holidays) to notify their workers’ compensation insurer. The insurer then has 14 days from receiving notice to either begin payments or issue a denial. In straightforward cases, you could see your first payment within about three weeks of the injury. If the insurer denies your claim, the process will take longer, as you may need to file an appeal with the Department of Industrial Accidents (DIA).
How about the duration of benefits?
In Massachusetts, how the state law classifies your disability plays a role in the duration of benefits. Massachusetts has clear rules under M.G.L. c. 152 that determine how long benefits will be available to eligible workers.
Types of workers’ comp benefits in Massachusetts
The duration of benefits depends on your medical condition and ability to work. Although the rules are more extensive, the general guidelines use the following standards:
- Temporary total incapacity benefits: This is applicable if you cannot work at all but expect to recover with the right treatment. The benefits duration can go up to three years or around 156 weeks.
- Partial incapacity benefits: If you can still work but only part-time and earn less than before the injury, you may qualify for this benefit. The duration for this benefit is five years or around 260 weeks.
- Permanent and total incapacity benefits: If your condition will prevent you from ever working again, you may receive benefits for the rest of your life.
- Medical benefits: There is no time limit for this benefit if the treatment is medically necessary and within reasonable bounds.
Note that the duration starts from the date of injury and not approval, which is why it is important that you file as soon as possible.
Utilize your benefits
The whole filing process is overwhelming, especially if you must go through it while in recovery. But an attorney well-versed in workplace accidents can help you secure the maximum benefits the law provides. The same lawyer can provide guidance in case your claim gets denied. So, do not delay securing your financial stability in the future.
