When Does Workers’ Comp Start Paying Lost Wages?

If you are wondering when workers’ compensation starts paying lost wages, the answer depends a lot on how serious your injuries are and how long you are unable to work. California has clear rules about when wage replacement benefits kick in, but delays and confusion can still happen. 

Knowing how these timelines work in San Bernardino could make a considerable difference when you are trying to plan for your recovery.

How Long You Must Wait Before Workers’ Compensation Starts Paying Benefits

California workers’ compensation does not always pay wage loss benefits right away. You must meet certain time requirements, although a few exceptions apply depending on how serious the injury is.

According to California Labor Code § 4650, when temporary disability benefits begin, and how payments are issued once you qualify, are clearly defined. Here are some of the main rules that affect when benefits start:

• Injured workers must miss at least three calendar days of work
• Payments start on the fourth day unless hospitalized overnight
• No waiting period if disability extends beyond 14 days
• Wage loss benefits are paid every two weeks after eligibility
• Delay periods apply if the employer disputes the claim
• Paperwork errors can slow initial payment timing
• A doctor’s certification of disability is required
• Temporary disability payments cover about two-thirds of gross wages
• Supplemental job displacement benefits may also apply later
  

Quick reporting and clear documentation help prevent delays in workers’ compensation wage payments. Severe injuries, including electrocution injuries, may qualify for immediate benefits with no waiting period if you meet the right conditions. The actual timing will depend on how your case is handled, the nature of your injury, and how soon your disability is verified by a doctor.

How Workers’ Comp Wage Payments Work in San Bernardino

Workers’ compensation wage payments in San Bernardino follow California’s statewide rules, but delays and roadblocks can still come up. Local workers often deal with unique challenges like slow wage verification or claim disputes, especially in fast-paced industries. 

Under state law, including the wage payment rules found in California Labor Code § 4653, these benefits are meant to keep injured workers afloat while they recover.

Temporary Total Disability Payments and When They Apply

If your doctor says you cannot do any part of your job while you recover, you may qualify for temporary total disability benefits. These payments usually kick in after a short waiting period and cover about two-thirds of your regular wages. They are designed to give you some stability while you heal, without the added stress of missing every paycheck.

Partial Wage Loss Benefits for Limited Duty Work

Not every injury means you have to stay home completely. Many workers with construction injuries go back to a light-duty role but earn less than they did before. In these cases, partial wage loss benefits may help close the gap so you are not left carrying the full financial burden during recovery.

Permanent Disability and Long-Term Wage Replacement

If your condition does not fully improve, your doctor may decide you have a lasting impairment. When that happens, you could be eligible for permanent disability payments to help cover long-term wage loss.

These benefits are based on how your injury affects your ability to work and are part of California’s system of ongoing support for injured workers in San Bernardino.