Temporary Disability Benefits
in California Workers’ Compensation
⚖️ California Temporary Disability Benefits Explained
If Your Checks Are Delayed, Underpaid, or Denied — We Step in & Fight Back.
At Employees First Labor Law, we help injured workers get the full benefits they’re owed, including:
Total Temporary Disability (TTD)
Total Temporary Disability (TTD) refers to a workers’ compensation benefit provided to employees who are completely unable to work for a limited period due to a work-related injury or illness.
- TTD benefits replace lost wages while the employee recovers.
- Typically pays two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage, up to a state-set maximum.
- Ends when the worker returns to work or reaches maximum medical improvement (MMI).
Partial Temporary Disability (PTD)
Partial Temporary Disability (PTD) is a type of workers’ compensation benefit for employees who can work in a limited capacity while recovering from a job-related injury or illness.
- PTD applies when a worker can return to work, but not at full capacity (e.g., fewer hours or lighter duties).
- The benefit helps compensate for lost wages due to reduced earning ability.
- Payments are typically based on the difference between pre-injury and post-injury wages.
What is Total Temporary Disability (TTD)?
Total Temporary Disability (TTD) benefits apply when your doctor says you can’t work at all because of your injury — not even modified or light-duty work. You may qualify for TTD if:
- Your doctor has placed you on temporary work restrictions or off work entirely
- Your employer can’t or won’t accommodate your work restrictions
- You’re recovering from surgery, therapy, or severe injury
How Much Do You Get Paid?
You’re entitled to two-thirds of your average weekly wages, subject to state minimum and maximum rates.
Example: If you earned $900/week before the injury, you’d typically receive around $600/week in TTD. Payments are usually made every two weeks, and are not taxable under state or federal law.
What is Partial Temporary Disability (PTD)?
At Employees First Labor Law, we help injured workers get the full benefits they’re owed, including:
You may qualify for Partial Temporary Disability (PTD) if:
- Your doctor has placed you on temporary work restrictions or off work entirely
- Your employer can’t or won’t accommodate your work restrictions
- You’re recovering from surgery, therapy, or severe injury
PTD Benefits = The Difference in Lost Wages
If you earned $1,200/week before your injury and now make only $800/week doing modified
work, PTD may pay two-thirds of the $400 difference — about $266/week.
⏳ How Long Do Temporary Disability Benefits Last?
Under California law, TD benefits generåally last up to 104 weeks within a 5-year period from the date of injury. In serious cases (e.g., amputations, severe burns), benefits may extend up to 240 weeks.
Your benefits will stop when:
- You return to work at full capacity
- Your doctor says your condition is "Permanent and Stationary" (P&S)
- You’ve reached the 104-week limit
Common Problems With TTD & PTD Benefits
We regularly hear from workers who are:
- Not receiving payments on time
- Paid less than they’re legally entitled to
- Cut off early by the claims administrator
- Denied benefits based on “non-compliance” with treatment or return-to-work offers
Don’t let the insurance company underpay you. We know their games — and how to stop them.
How EFLL Helps Injured Workers Recover Their Lost Wages
Our team fights for every dollar you’re owed — and we don’t back down. We:
Audit your wage calculations for accuracy
Challenge improper denials or benefit cuts
Represent you before the California Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB)
Coordinate with your doctor to prove your work status and medical restrictions
You’re not just a claim number. You’re a worker with bills, a family, and a life — and we’ll fight to protect it.
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