Understanding TTD Benefits After a Work Injury
If you’ve been hurt on the job in Norcross, GA, one of the first questions you probably have is, “How will I support myself while I can’t work?” For many injured workers, the answer comes in the form of temporary total disability (TTD) benefits — weekly payments under Georgia’s workers’ compensation system that replace a portion of your lost income while you recover. Because these payments have a limit, it’s important to understand how long you’re entitled to receive TTD benefits so that you can plan your financial future.
At the Law Offices of Humberto Izquierdo, Jr., PC, we guide injured workers through every stage of their workers’ comp claims, making sure they get the benefits they deserve for as long as the law allows.
What Are TTD Benefits?
TTD benefits are wage replacement payments made to employees who cannot work at all due to job-related injuries. They’re part of the Georgia workers’ compensation system, which provides injured workers with medical treatment coverage, rehabilitation, and income benefits without the need to prove fault.
You may be eligible for TTD benefits if:
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Your doctor says you cannot perform any of your regular job duties because of your injury.
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You are unable to work in any capacity, including light-duty assignments.
In Norcross, where industries like manufacturing, warehousing, construction, and delivery involve physically demanding work, TTD benefits are essential for workers who become sidelined by serious injuries.
How TTD Benefits Are Calculated in Georgia
In Georgia, TTD benefits are based on your average weekly wage (AWW) for the 13 weeks before your injury. You’ll typically receive:
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Two-thirds of your AWW, subject to a maximum set by law.
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A minimum weekly benefit if your wages were lower.
For example, if your average weekly wage was $900, your TTD benefit would be about $600/week (two-thirds of $900), assuming it does not exceed the maximum cap.
This calculation is critical, and mistakes are common. If your benefits seem too low, the Law Offices of Humberto Izquierdo, Jr., PC, can review your wage history and fight for the correct amount.
How Long You Can Receive TTD Benefits in Norcross, GA
Georgia law sets clear rules on the duration of TTD benefits:
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For non-catastrophic injuries, you’ll receive up to 400 weeks (about 7.7 years) from the date of the injury.
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For catastrophic injuries, there is no time limit, and benefits may continue for as long as you are unable to work.
Please note that catastrophic injuries under Georgia law are referring to severe spinal cord injuries, amputations, traumatic brain injuries, severe burns, and other permanent impairments. For most workers in Norcross, the 400-week limit applies. However, benefits can end sooner if your doctor releases you to return to work, you accept suitable light-duty work, or the insurer successfully challenges your continued disability status.
Situations That Can Reduce or End TTD Benefits
It’s important to understand that your TTD benefits can stop before the maximum period if certain events occur.
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Returning to Work in Any Capacity. If you return to your job or take another position (even part-time) your TTD payments will likely stop.
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Light-Duty Work Offers. If your employer offers light-duty work that meets your doctor’s restrictions and you refuse, your benefits could end.
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Medical Improvement. If your doctor says you can work in some capacity, you may be moved from TTD to temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits.
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Employer/Insurer Disputes. Insurance companies may request an independent medical examination (IME) to challenge your disability status.
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Surveillance Evidence. If the insurer gathers video or photographic evidence suggesting you can work, they may try to terminate your benefits.
Because insurers often look for reasons to cut off benefits, having legal representation is your best defense against unfair terminations.
Protecting Your Right to Full TTD Benefits
To keep your TTD benefits for as long as you’re entitled, follow these best practices.
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Follow All Medical Advice. Attend every appointment, follow treatment plans, and go to the required physical therapy.
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Document Everything. Keep records of medical visits, work restrictions, and communications with your employer.
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Avoid Risky Social Media Posts. Even innocent photos can be used against you in a benefits dispute.
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Communicate Through Your Attorney. Let your workers’ comp lawyer handle sensitive interactions with insurers or employers.
The Law Offices of Humberto Izquierdo, Jr., PC can act as your advocate, making sure the insurance company respects your rights and the legal time limits for benefits.
How a Norcross Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Can Help
Navigating Georgia’s workers’ compensation system is challenging, especially when your health and finances are on the line. Here are some of the ways that our firm helps Norcross workers.
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Ensuring Benefits Start on Time. We push for prompt payments after the waiting period.
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Verifying Calculations. We confirm your average weekly wage is correct to maximize your TTD amount.
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Fighting Early Terminations. We challenge insurer attempts to cut benefits prematurely.
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Building Strong Medical Evidence. We coordinate with your doctors to document your ongoing disability.
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Representing You at Hearings. We fight for your benefits before the State Board of Workers’ Compensation if necessary.
With deep knowledge of Georgia law and local insight into Norcross employers and insurers, our team stands ready to protect your rights.
FAQs – TTD Benefits in Georgia Workers’ Comp
Q: How soon after my injury will TTD benefits start?
A: In Georgia, there’s a seven-day waiting period. Benefits typically start after that if you’re still unable to work. If you miss more than 21 consecutive days, you’ll be paid for the first seven days retroactively.
Q: If TTD benefits become delayed, is back pay allowed?
A: Yes. If your claim is approved after a dispute, you may receive back pay for missed weeks.
Q: Can I receive both TTD and unemployment benefits?
A: No. TTD is for when you cannot work; unemployment requires you to be able and available to work.
Q: What if my employer fires me while I’m on TTD?
A: You may still qualify for TTD benefits as long as your work restrictions remain in place due to your injury.
Get Help Securing the TTD Benefits You Deserve
If you’ve been injured on the job in Norcross, GA, your TTD benefits can be the lifeline that keeps your household afloat while you recover. But you can’t assume the insurance company will play fair or pay you as long as they should. That’s why the Law Offices of Humberto Izquierdo, Jr., PC, is here to fight for you. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win. Our goal is to make sure that you receive every week of benefits that you’re entitled to under Georgia law.
Contact us when you’re ready to schedule your free case review! (770) 888-8901
