Timeline for Receiving Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
If you have been injured at work, you’re covered by the workers’ compensation insurance that most employers are required to carry for all their employees. The matter of when you receive the benefits to which you are entitled, however, is of critical importance. Knowing the basics regarding timing and workers’ compensation benefits in New Jersey can help you get a better handle on your claim. Working with our experienced workers’ compensation attorney at Matarazzo & Lubcher in Wildwood can help ensure you receive fair compensation.
Workers’ Compensation Timelines to Keep in Mind
The rules and regulations that apply to workers’ compensation are exacting, which makes the claims process challenging. Knowing the basic timelines that apply, however, can help.
If You’ve Been Off the Job for 7 days
If you have missed work for a total of 7 days due to a work-related injury or illness, you are generally entitled to workers’ compensation benefits for lost income. If you’re out for at least 21 days, you will be paid retroactively for those first seven days, but if you are not, they won’t be covered.
Your compensation will be calculated at 70 percent of your average weekly gross earnings, to which the state applies a cap and a maximum. Your workers’ compensation benefits, however, are not subject to taxation.
It should be noted that there is no waiting week for those who are entitled to permanent disability benefits.
At About the Two-Week Mark
Generally, employees who qualify for workers’ compensation benefits can expect to begin receiving them after about two weeks have passed. This is subject to any potential delays that may arise.
After 30 Days: Unreasonable Delay
If you have been off the job due to a work-related injury or condition for 30 days and have not yet received your workers’ compensation, you have reached a point where you need to act with an attorney. If the delay is due to your employer or the insurance company’s actions, it is considered an unreasonable delay.
Protect Your Right to Benefits in Wildwood
If you have been injured in the course of your work, you depend on the benefits you are entitled to and deserve to assist you on the road to recovery. While your situation will be unique, there are some universally beneficial tips for protecting your right to workers’ compensation benefits. These include:
- Don’t delay seeking medical attention and follow your doctor’s advice carefully.
- Inform your employer about your accident on the job as soon as you can.
- Retain the professional legal counsel of a well-respected workers’ comp lawyer early on and allow them to speak and negotiate on your behalf.
An Experienced Wildwood Workers’ Compensation Lawyer is Standing By to Help
The dependable Wildwood workers’ compensation attorneys at Matarazzo & Lubcher are committed to unleashing the full force of our impressive legal skill in pursuit of the compensation to which you are entitled. We care about you and your claim, so please don’t wait to contact us by phone or online for more information today.