Shoulder injuries are not only painful, but they can also hamper your ability to do the kind of work you usually perform.
Because of your on-the-job injury, you may qualify for temporary total disability benefits under an Ohio workers’ compensation insurer.
About Ohio workers’ compensation
In Ohio, there are two state agencies that manage workers’ compensation matters. The Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation, or BWC, is in charge of administering the overall program, such as paying medical bills. The Industrial Commission, or IC, handles resolving any disputes that might transpire with the BWC.
How TTD benefits work
If you qualify for workers’ compensation benefits and your doctor confirms that you are unable to work for a period of time because of your shoulder injury, you should begin receiving temporary total disability, or TTD benefits. You can expect to receive the replacement of lost wages.
Calculating TTD benefits
During the first 12 weeks that you are recovering from your injury, your compensation should represent 72% of your gross wages. The percentage then drops to two-thirds of your gross wages. You can expect TTD benefits to continue until your physician finds that you have reached maximum medical improvement or you have returned to work.
Receiving living maintenance benefits
Ohio workers’ compensation also offers living maintenance or LM benefits. If you cannot return to the job you had prior to the shoulder injury but are undergoing approved vocational rehabilitation, the BWC will provide up to six months’ payment to you while you complete the program.