If workers get hurt on the job, they can potentially apply for workers’ compensation benefits. Most Florida employees are eligible for benefits when they develop job-acquired medical challenges.
Many professionals understand that they can request temporary disability benefits until they return to work. They are familiar with the medical benefits that can cover their treatment expenses. People also understand that there are permanent total disability benefits available to workers who cannot continue their careers anymore.
What other benefits can workers potentially qualify for that they may not know they can?
1. Partial disability benefits
Many workers do not realize that they could qualify for workers’ compensation benefits despite continuing to work. If a worker must move to light-duty job functions and receives lower wages, partial disability benefits can cover part of the difference between their prior income and their current wages.
If a medical professional determines that they are unlikely to make a full recovery and may always have symptoms, the worker may qualify for permanent partial disability benefits. In some cases, that may be available as a lump-sum payment instead of a regular supplement for lower wages.
2. Reemployment services
Many people aren’t aware that workers’ compensation provides benefits that can help those who have to change professions. There are training benefits available to help workers learn new skills.
There are also job placement benefits that can help them rework their resumes and navigate the job search process. With the right support, a professional who has to leave their job might be able to find a well-paid replacement position in a different industry.
3. Death benefits
If a worker dies because of an injury or job-acquired illness, their family members may qualify for benefits related to their passing. Workers’ compensation may cover up to $7,500 in funeral costs. Surviving family members can also potentially receive disability to replace the lost wages previously earned by their loved one.
Securing help when filing a workers’ compensation claim can help people optimize their benefits. Those who learn about the system are often in the best position to limit the economic fallout of a job-related health condition.