In New Jersey, workers who suffer injuries or illnesses that prevent them from working are generally entitled to workers' compensation benefits. Among the various types of benefits available, Temporary Total Disability (TTD) is one of the classifications for an injured worker. TTD benefits provide financial support during the period when an employee is unable to work due to a job-related injury or illness, helping them to manage their expenses while they recover.

The workers comp process is usually straightforward, but can be more complex in some TTD cases, especially for those dealing with the physical and emotional toll of an injury. Understanding how this type of disability works in New Jersey, including what it entails, and how it impacts your compensation claim is important to ensure you are approved for the benefits you are entitled to. In this article, we will explore the key aspects of TTD in New Jersey, including the eligibility requirements, benefit calculations, and the legal limits on these benefits.

However, as with any real life situation that requires knowledge of injury law, we suggest that you consult with an experienced workers comp lawyer. Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney At Law is here to help you understand your rights.

Understanding Temporary Total Disability in New Jersey

Temporary Total Disability (TTD) in NJ is a workers' compensation benefit designed to provide income replacement to employees who are temporarily unable to perform their job duties due to a work-related injury or illness. Unlike Permanent Total Disability, which is for workers who are unable to return to work at all, TTD benefits are meant to support workers during the recovery period until they are able to return to work, either in their previous capacity or in a modified role.

TTD benefits are available to workers who have been injured on the job and whose injuries prevent them from performing their regular duties for a temporary period. This could include anything from a severe sprain or fracture that requires rest and rehabilitation to a more serious condition that necessitates surgery and an extended recovery period.

Eligibility for TTD Benefits

To be eligible for TTD benefits in New Jersey, a worker must meet certain criteria. First, the injury or illness must be work-related and must have occurred in the course of employment. Additionally, the worker must be unable to work for more than seven days due to the injury. After this seven-day waiting period, TTD benefits begin to be paid.

It's important to note that TTD benefits are not paid during the first seven days of disability unless the worker is out of work for more than 14 days, in which case benefits will be paid retroactively from the first day of disability.

How TTD Benefits Are Calculated in New Jersey

In New Jersey, TTD benefits are calculated based on the worker's average weekly wage (AWW) at the time of the injury. The benefit amount is typically set at 70% of the worker's AWW, subject to minimum and maximum limits that are updated annually by the state. For example, the maximum weekly TTD benefit in New Jersey in 2024 is currently set at $1,131, while the minimum was $302.

These benefits are designed to provide a portion of the worker's income while they are unable to work, helping to alleviate the financial burden during recovery. However, because TTD benefits only cover a portion of the worker's income, it’s important for injured workers to plan accordingly and explore other potential sources of income or financial support if needed.

Duration of Benefits

TTD benefits continue to be paid until one of the following occurs:

• The worker is able to return to work, either in their previous role or in a modified capacity.
• The worker reaches maximum medical improvement (MMI), meaning that further medical treatment is unlikely to improve their condition.
• The worker has received TTD benefits for 400 weeks, which is the maximum duration for TTD in New Jersey.

If a worker reaches MMI but is still unable to return to work, they may be eligible for Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) or Permanent Total Disability (PTD) benefits, depending on the severity of their condition.

What Is The TTD Claims Process in New Jersey?

Filing a Claim

To file a TTD claim in New Jersey, an injured worker must notify their employer of the injury as soon as possible. This notification triggers the employer's obligation to report the injury to their workers' compensation insurance carrier, which will then begin the process of determining eligibility for benefits.

The worker must also seek medical treatment from a healthcare provider authorized by the employer or the workers' compensation insurance carrier. The healthcare provider will assess the worker's condition and provide documentation that supports the need for TTD benefits. This documentation is critical for the success of the claim, as it establishes the extent of the injury and the expected duration of the disability.

Challenges and Disputes

Despite the clear guidelines for TTD benefits in New Jersey, disputes can still arise. For example, an employer or insurance carrier might dispute the severity of the injury or the length of time the worker is expected to be out of work. In such cases, the worker may need to seek legal representation to ensure that their rights are protected and that they receive the benefits to which they are entitled.

Call Brandon J. Broderick For Legal Help

Navigating New Jersey workers comp claims can be challenging. Fortunately, you don't need to do it alone. The experienced workers compensation lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, are available 24/7 to help you understand your legal options, gather necessary evidence, and build a strong case to secure the settlement you deserve.

Contact us now for a free legal review.