You hurt yourself on the clock recently, and while your employer has workers’ compensation insurance, you do not know whether your injury qualifies for a claim. Should you file for disability insurance instead?
Chron describes the difference between the two work-related injury insurance types. Save time and get the compensation you need by understanding where to focus your energy and attention.
Their similarities
As an employee who suffered harm or became ill, you may receive compensation from either disability insurance or workers’ comp. Your specific benefits depend on your job title and geographic location, but both insurance types cover a percentage of your regular wages until you recover enough to return to work. Neither workers’ comp nor disability covers illness or injury incurred from injuries a person inflicts deliberately or on her or himself.
Their distinctions
The biggest difference between the two coverage options is that you may only submit a workers’ compensation claim for illness or harm suffered on the clock. You receive compensation for lost wages and resulting health care bills. Further, if you qualify for workers comp, you likely have a temporary injury or illness rather than a disability.
If you suffer harm off the clock that prevents you from working, consider filing a disability insurance claim. Another difference between the two is you pay your own disability insurance claims while your employer pays for workers’ comp.
Their constraints
Neither disability nor workers’ comp pays you your full salary while you recover; you may not even receive half your salary with disability coverage. Does your job put you at risk of long-term illness or injury? If so, you may need to pay higher coverage premiums.
Learn your options and responsibilities when an injury prevents you from working.
