Workers’ compensation and disability benefits can both offer vital support to people in Iowa and South Dakota who cannot work due to health issues. However, they cover different circumstances and have different requirements. What should you know about these programs?
What should you know about workers’ compensation benefits?
Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that gives money to workers who get hurt or sick because of their job. Some details about this program include:
- Who runs the program? State laws govern workers’ comp, and the requirements for this insurance vary depending on the state. Iowa law requires most businesses to carry workers’ compensation insurance, whereas South Dakota recommends but does not require businesses to have this coverage.
- Who is eligible? In both Iowa and South Dakota, the covered injury or illness must be related to a person’s job. Workers must also take specific steps to report it and file a claim.
- How much could you receive? Workers’ compensation usually pays for medical bills, rehabilitation costs and part of lost wages. The amount depends on the injury and the worker’s average weekly wage. The state also generally sets a weekly maximum for benefits.
- How long do benefits last? How long workers’ compensation benefits last depends on the injury. Temporary disability benefits continue until the worker is as healed as possible. The duration of permanent disability benefits can vary depending on the injury.
What should you know about disability benefits?
Disability benefits help people who cannot work because of an injury or illness not related to work. Some details about this program include:
- Who runs the program? Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are federal disability benefit programs.
- Who is eligible? To receive SSDI, people need a significant work history and a medical condition that fits the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. They must also have limited income and resources.
- How much could you receive? SSDI benefits are based on the person’s lifetime average earnings covered by Social Security. SSI gives a basic monthly amount adjusted by any other income the person might have. The exact benefit amount can be very different for each person.
- How long do benefits last? Disability benefits continue as long as the disabled person cannot work. SSDI benefits might change to retirement benefits when the person reaches retirement age, while SSI continues as long as they meet eligibility requirements.
Which benefits should you apply for?
Choosing between workers’ compensation and disability benefits depends mostly on how and why the injury or illness happened. If the condition is work-related, workers’ compensation is the right choice. If it is not related to work, SSDI or SSI might be better.
Speaking with an experienced attorney can help you make informed decisions about your specific situation. They can help you based on your case’s details, guiding you through the application process. Knowing your eligibility and the benefits you can get is key to getting the support you need in tough times.
Both programs can provide support
Workers’ compensation and disability benefits both provide money to people who cannot work. However, they are for different situations and have unique rules and benefits. Understanding the differences can help people in Iowa and South Dakota make smart decisions about their financial health and recovery.