What Georgia workers need to know about TTD claims after an on-the-job injury in Atlanta
If you’ve been hurt on the job in Georgia and can’t work, you’re probably concerned about how you’ll make ends meet while you recover. Fortunately, that’s where temporary total disability (TTD) benefits come in.
Georgia’s workers’ compensation system is designed to help replace part of your lost income while you heal from an on-the-job injury or occupational disease—but understanding if you qualify, how to apply for them, and how long they can last is key to protecting your financial future.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know in plain language so you can feel more confident about what comes next.
If you run into workers’ comp delays, denials, or roadblocks along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experienced Georgia workers’ compensation attorneys at Gerber & Elkins to schedule a free consultation. We’re always here to help!
What does temporarily and totally disabled mean in workers’ comp?
In workers’ comp, being temporarily and totally disabled means a worker is completely unable to work for a period of time, but they are expected to recover and return to work eventually.
If the temporary disability is the result of a work-related injury or occupational disease, Georgia employees may be able to receive indemnity benefits (also called wage loss benefits) to help replace their lost income.
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What are temporary total disability (TTD) benefits?
Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits are one type of indemnity benefit available to workers who can’t work at all for a limited time after a workplace injury. These benefits help replace a portion of your lost wages (typically two-thirds) while you heal.
Once your doctor clears you to return to work—either with no restrictions or with limited duties—your TTD benefits will end.
It’s important to know that not all injuries are classified as temporary or total. Workers’ comp also covers permanent disabilities (where you never fully recover) and partial disabilities (where you can work in some capacity but not as you did before). The type and severity of your injury will determine which category of benefits you’re eligible for.
How soon will I get TTD benefits after a work injury in Georgia?
After a work injury in Georgia, you must be out of work for at least 7 days before you qualify for temporary total disability (TTD) benefits. This initial seven-day stretch is called the “waiting period.” If your injury keeps you out of work for 21 days or more, you can also receive payment for that first week you missed.
Typically, the insurance company must start sending your weekly TTD checks within 21 days of the date you reported your injury. If there are delays or issues in getting your benefits started, it may be a sign that you need legal help to push your claim forward and ensure your rights are protected.
How are TTD benefits for workers’ comp calculated?
In Georgia, temporary total disability (TTD) benefits are calculated by first figuring out your average weekly wage (AWW). This is done by adding up your total gross earnings from the 13 weeks before your injury and dividing that number by 13.
Here’s how your payments are typically calculated:
- Step 1: Add up your total gross earnings (before taxes) from the 13 weeks before your injury.
- Step 2: Divide that total by 13 to find your average weekly wage (AWW).
- Step 3: Multiply your AWW by two-thirds (0.6667) to figure out your weekly TTD benefit amount.
- Step 4: Check the maximum limit. As of July 2023, the maximum you can receive for TTD in Georgia is $800 per week, even if your calculated amount is higher.
Here’s an example of how TTD benefit calculations would work if you earned $13,000 total over the 13 weeks before your injury:
- $13,000 ÷ 13 = $1,000 (your AWW)
- $1,000 × 0.6667 = $666.70 per week in TTD benefits.
Since $666.70 is below the $800 maximum, you would receive $666.70 each week while you are out of work.
Unlike your income, these benefits are not taxable, so you would receive the full amount. Oftentimes, workers find that this amount is close to their regular take-home pay before their injuries.
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How do I apply for TTD benefits in Georgia?
To apply for temporary total disability (TTD) benefits after a work injury in Georgia, you’ll need to follow a few important steps to file a workers’ comp claim:
- Report your injury to your employer. You must notify your employer within 30 days of your accident or the diagnosis of your occupational disease. Generally speaking, the sooner you report it, the better.
- Seek medical treatment. You’ll need to see a doctor approved by your employer or their workers’ compensation insurance company. Your medical records will be key to supporting your claim, so make sure you tell the doctor that your injury or condition was caused by your job.
- File a claim. You must submit a Form WC-14 (found here) to the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation within 1 year. This officially starts your claim for benefits.
- Wait for a decision. The insurance company will review your claim and decide if you’re eligible for TTD benefits. If approved, you should start receiving weekly checks.
If your employer or their insurer denies your claim, delays your payments, or argues that you can return to work when you can’t, you should contact a local Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyer to help you secure the benefits you deserve.
How long can I receive TTD benefits in Georgia?
In Georgia, you can receive temporary total disability (TTD) benefits for up to 400 weeks from the date of your injury—or until your doctor says you are able to return to work, whichever comes first.
If you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI)—meaning your condition has stabilized and is not expected to improve further—and you have a permanent partial disability (you are partially disabled but can still work in some capacity), you may become eligible for permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits instead.
If your injury is classified as catastrophic (e.g., severe brain injury, spinal cord injury, amputation, etc.) and you are permanently and totally disabled (unable to work in any capacity), you may qualify for lifetime TTD benefits, meaning the 400-week limit would not apply.
Need help applying for workers’ comp benefits in Georgia?
Getting hurt at work is tough enough without the stress of dealing with insurance companies and complicated legal paperwork. You deserve someone in your corner who understands how the system works and is willing to fight for the full benefits you deserve.
At Gerber & Elkins, our knowledgeable Atlanta work injury attorneys have more than 100 years of combined experience helping injured workers just like you stand up to big insurance and get what they’re owed. During a free consultation, we’ll sit down with you, answer your questions, and explain your options so you can move forward with confidence.
Ready to learn more?
Contact Gerber & Elkins Workers’ Compensation Attorneys today to find out how we can help maximize your claim.
