Total Disability Benefits

Applies to injured workers for a period during which they are considered totally disabled and unable to work. After 104 weeks of such status, the employer/insurer can require a medical examination to determine if the employee is at least 50% impaired based upon his/her work injury according to American Medical Association standards. If the 50% threshold is not met, the employees status can change to partial disability.

Partial Disability Benefits

This benefit status is for a maximum of 500 weeks. If, while on partial disability status, you obtain a qualified impairment rating physicians determination of impairment which is equal to or greater than 50%, you may file a Petition for Reinstatement of total disability status.

Partial disability of up to 500 weeks of benefits are paid if you can return to work at a lower paying job within work-related restrictions or you are found not totally disabled.

source: PA Department of Labor and Industry

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