What qualifies as permanent total disability?
Permanent total disability (PTD) means a work injury permanently prevents you from performing any gainful employment. Many states presume PTD for catastrophic losses such as total blindness, loss of both hands or both feet, or paralysis. Other cases are proven with medical and vocational evidence of no employability.
How much does permanent total disability pay?
Most states pay PTD at two-thirds of your average weekly wage, the same rate as temporary total disability, subject to the state maximum. The key difference is duration: PTD often continues for life or for a long statutory period, rather than only during recovery.
Does permanent total disability last for life?
It depends on the state. Some states pay PTD benefits for the worker's lifetime; others cap the total number of weeks (for example, 400-500 weeks) or reduce benefits at retirement age or when Social Security offsets apply. Always confirm your state's duration rules.
Can Social Security reduce my PTD benefits?
Possibly. If you receive both workers' comp PTD and Social Security Disability Insurance, a combined-benefit offset can apply so the total does not exceed 80% of your prior average earnings. The offset can reduce either the workers' comp or the SSDI payment depending on state rules.