If you’ve been injured on the job in California, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. But navigating the terms used in your case—especially when it comes to disability classifications—can be confusing and overwhelming.
Many workers don’t fully understand the difference between temporary and permanent disability, or between partial and total disability. These categories significantly affect how long you’ll receive benefits and how much you’ll be paid.
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences, how disability status is determined, and what to do if you disagree with a medical evaluation. Understanding your rights is the first step toward making sure you receive the full benefits you deserve.
Understanding the Types of Disability in California Workers’ Comp
California’s workers’ compensation system recognizes four main types of disability benefits:
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD)
- Temporary Partial Disability (TPD)
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD)
Each of these plays a different role in the compensation process depending on the severity and duration of your injury.
Temporary Disability (TD)
1. Temporary Total Disability (TTD)
TTD benefits are provided when your work-related injury or illness prevents you from working at all for a temporary period. If your doctor says you cannot return to work (in any capacity) while you recover, you will typically receive TTD payments.
Key facts:
- You can receive up to two-thirds of your average weekly wage, subject to state-set minimums and maximums.
- Payments are made every two weeks.
- Benefits continue until you’re cleared to return to work or your condition reaches maximum medical improvement (MMI)—whichever comes first.
- TTD benefits generally last up to 104 weeks (2 years) within a 5-year period from the date of injury.
2. Temporary Partial Disability (TPD)
TPD applies when you’re able to return to work in a limited or reduced capacity while recovering. If you’re earning less because of restricted duties or fewer hours, TPD benefits help make up the difference.
Key facts:
- Benefits are calculated based on the difference between your pre-injury and post-injury wages.
- Like TTD, these benefits are subject to state maximums and duration limits.
- TPD is designed to supplement, not replace, your reduced income while healing.
Permanent Disability (PD)
3. Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)
Once your condition stabilizes and is not expected to improve, your doctor will assess whether you’ve suffered any lasting impairment. If the injury has a permanent effect but you can still work in some capacity, you may be eligible for Permanent Partial Disability.
Key facts:
- PPD is based on a rating system that considers your injury, age, occupation, and diminished future earning capacity.
- Ratings are given as a percentage (e.g., 10%, 25%), which determines the total benefit amount.
- Payments are made in weekly installments until the set benefit amount is reached.
4. Permanent Total Disability (PTD)
PTD is rare and applies when your injury or illness leaves you completely unable to work in any capacity for the rest of your life.
Key facts:
- Conditions like paralysis, traumatic brain injuries, or loss of multiple limbs may qualify.
- PTD benefits are typically paid for life at the same rate as TTD.
- Your doctor and claims administrator will determine if your level of impairment qualifies as total.
How Is Disability Status Determined?
Your disability status is primarily determined by your treating physician, who monitors your recovery and reports your work restrictions. The key decision point is when you reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)—meaning your condition is stable and unlikely to change with additional treatment.
At MMI, your doctor will evaluate:
- Permanent functional limitations
- Ability to return to work
- Need for long-term care or rehabilitation
Your level of impairment is converted into a disability rating using California’s Permanent Disability Rating Schedule (PDRS), which takes into account:
- Your medical condition
- Your age and job type
- The severity of work limitations
This rating directly influences your compensation, especially for permanent partial disability.
What If You Disagree With a Medical Evaluation?
If you disagree with the doctor’s findings—especially regarding MMI status, work restrictions, or your disability rating—you have the right to challenge it.
Steps You Can Take:
- Request a Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME)
This is an independent doctor chosen from a state-certified panel to evaluate your condition. You’ll receive a QME panel list and select from the options provided. - Hire an Attorney (Recommended)
An experienced California workers’ compensation attorney can help guide the process, gather evidence, and ensure your QME or treating doctor accurately reflects the severity of your condition. - Attend the Medical Exam
The QME will perform a new evaluation and submit a report, which will influence your case moving forward. - File for a Hearing if Needed
If the dispute continues, your lawyer can take your case before a Workers’ Compensation Judge to resolve the matter through a formal hearing.
Remember, insurance companies often rely heavily on medical reports. If you feel the evaluation was rushed, inaccurate, or unfair, don’t settle without getting legal advice.
Get Help From a California Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Understanding the difference between temporary and permanent disability can help you protect your rights and ensure you receive the maximum compensation you’re entitled to. But dealing with medical evaluations, insurance adjusters, and paperwork can be overwhelming—especially when you’re trying to recover.
That’s where we come in.
At California Workers’ Compensation Attorney, we specialize in helping injured workers throughout the state navigate every step of the process. From securing disability benefits to disputing medical ratings, we fight to make sure you get what you deserve.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured on the job and have questions about your disability status or benefits, don’t wait. Speak with a skilled workers’ compensation attorney today.