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How Long Does Workers’ Compensation Last?

If you’ve been hurt on the job, workers’ compensation can be a lifeline. But how long do those benefits actually last?

Our New York personal injury attorneys explain how workers’ compensation works in New York, what types of benefits you might be eligible for, and your options when you run out.

What Is Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that New York employers are legally required to carry. It’s designed to protect employees who get injured or become ill because of their job by offering support during a difficult time. The system helps injured workers avoid financial stress while they focus on healing and getting back on their feet.

How Long Does Workers' Compensation Last in New York?

It depends on the severity of the injury, whether the employee can return to work, and how a doctor classifies the disability.

Temporary Benefits

Workers with temporary injuries can receive benefits to help cover lost wages while they recover. These payments typically continue until the worker reaches maximum medical improvement (MMI), when their condition has stabilized and isn’t expected to improve further. In most cases, temporary benefits last up to two and a half years, but the exact duration depends on the worker’s recovery and ongoing medical evaluations.

Permanent Benefits

If your injury causes long-term or permanent damage, you may be eligible for permanent workers’ compensation benefits. Workers who are wholly or permanently disabled can receive payments for life. If the disability is partial, benefits are paid for a set number of weeks, typically between 225 and 525, depending on the severity of the injury and the impairment rating assigned to your case.

Types of Workers' Compensation Benefits

New York’s workers’ compensation system offers different benefits to support injured workers.

Medical Benefits

These benefits cover the cost of treating your work-related injury or illness. That includes doctor's visits, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and other rehabilitation services. To make sure your treatment is covered, you’ll need to see a provider authorized by the Workers’ Compensation Board.

Wage Replacement Benefits

You may be eligible for wage replacement if your injury keeps you from working. These payments are usually two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a state-set maximum. There are two main types:

Temporary Total Disability (TTD): For workers who can’t work at all for a limited time.
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): This is for workers who can return to work but have a reduced ability to earn.

Vocational Rehabilitation

If your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job, you may qualify for vocational rehabilitation. This includes job training, help with your resume, and job placement services, all of which are aimed at helping you get back into the workforce in a new role.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Frequent Are Workers' Compensation Payments in New York?

Workers’ compensation payments in New York are usually sent out every two weeks. However, this can vary based on the insurance company and the details of your claim. That’s why it’s important to stay in touch with your insurance adjuster to make sure you get your payments on time.

What Happens When Workers' Compensation Benefits End?

Can Workers' Compensation Be Extended?

Key Takeaways

Workers’ compensation helps cover medical costs and lost wages for employees who are injured or become ill due to their job.

Benefit types include medical care, wage replacement, and vocational rehabilitation.

Payments are typically issued every two weeks and may continue temporarily or permanently, depending on your condition and recovery progress.

Schedule a Consultation with Our Workers’ Compensation Lawyers

Dealing with a work injury is stressful enough; navigating the workers’ comp system shouldn’t add to it. At Field Law Group, we’re here to take that burden off your shoulders. Our experienced attorneys are available 24/7 to help you understand your rights and fight for the benefits you’re entitled to.

If you or someone you love has been hurt on the job, call 212-739-7278 or contact us for a free consultation. We’ll guide you every step of the way and work hard to ensure you get the compensation you need to heal and move forward.

About the Firm: With over a decade of experience, Field Law Group has been helping personal injury victims across New York since 2013. We’re dedicated to protecting the rights of accident victims and fighting to get them the compensation they deserve.

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