Different Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits

If you’ve suffered a work-related injury, the physical pain and uncertainty about your future can be overwhelming. You may find yourself asking: Am I eligible for Workers’ Compensation? These are common concerns, and at Freedman & Lorry, P.C., our experienced Philadelphia Workers’ Compensation lawyers are here to provide clear answers and trusted guidance every step of the way.

What Types of Disability Benefits Can I Receive?

Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation offers several types of wage-loss benefits depending on the nature and severity of your injury. These benefits are designed to support you while you recover and, in some cases, for the long term.

Total Disability Benefits: If your injury completely prevents you from working, you may be entitled to total disability benefits. These benefits compensate a portion of your lost wages while you’re unable to work. After receiving benefits for 104 weeks, you may be required to undergo a medical evaluation to determine whether you can return to any form of employment.
Partial Disability Benefits: If you’re able to return to work in a limited capacity or at a reduced wage, partial disability benefits can help make up the difference in your earnings. These are typically available for up to 500 weeks.

What if My Injury Has Long-Term Effects?

Some workplace injuries cause permanent damage but don’t leave you completely unable to work. Pennsylvania law provides compensation for these scenarios:

Specific Loss Benefits: If you lose a limb, finger, toe, or the use of a body part (such as eyesight or hearing), you may qualify for specific loss benefits. These are paid regardless of whether you miss work and are based on a schedule established by state law.
Disfigurement Benefits: In some cases, if your injury causes permanent and serious disfigurement to the head, face, or neck, you may also be entitled to compensation even if your ability to work is not affected.
Permanent Total Disability: Although rare, if your injury leaves you completely unable to engage in any type of gainful employment, you may qualify for ongoing total disability benefits.

Should I Choose a Lump-Sum Settlement or Ongoing Payments?

In many cases, Workers’ Compensation claims are resolved through a Compromise and Release agreement. This allows you to receive a one-time lump-sum payment in exchange for giving up your right to future benefits related to the injury.

While a settlement can provide immediate financial relief, it also means you’ll no longer receive ongoing medical or wage-loss benefits related to that injury. The best option depends on your medical condition, your future treatment needs, and your financial circumstances. You should consult with an experienced Workers’ Compensation attorney—and potentially a forensic accountant—before agreeing to any settlement.

What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover?

Beyond wage-loss benefits, Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation also covers:

Hospital care and doctor visits
Medications
Surgery
Physical therapy
Medical equipment
Ongoing or future medical expenses directly related to your workplace injury

As long as your injury occurred in the course and scope of your employment, Workers’ Compensation is designed to support your recovery and protect your financial well-being.

Speak to a Philadelphia Workers’ Compensation Lawyer at Freedman & Lorry, P.C. Today

You don’t have to navigate the Workers’ Compensation process alone. The dedicated Philadelphia Workers’ Compensation lawyers at Freedman & Lorry, P.C. have decades of experience. We will help you understand your rights, file your claim correctly, and pursue the full compensation you deserve. Call us at 888-999-1962 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. With offices in Philadelphia and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we proudly represent injured workers throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania.