If you suffered a workplace accident in Illinois, the law protects you with different types of compensation. The workers’ compensation system is designed to cover your medical expenses and replace your lost wages while you recover.
However, the terms can be confusing. We will explain in clear terms the key benefits you are entitled to, including TTD, PPD, and PTD.
When an injury prevents you from working, Illinois law provides benefits to replace your wages. These are divided based on whether your disability is temporary or permanent.
TPD (Temporary Partial Disability)
If you can work light duty or part-time during recovery, TPD covers the wage difference.
TTD (Temporary Total Disability)
Payments while you’re completely unable to work during recovery. Typically 2/3 of your average weekly wage.
PPD (Permanent Partial Disability)
Compensation for permanent limitations after you’ve finished treatment.
PTD (Permanent Total Disability
For catastrophic injuries that prevent you from ever working again. You receive weekly payments for life.
In addition to disability payments, workers’ compensation must cover these costs:
From day one, you are entitled to have your employer's insurance cover 100% of all medical expenses related to your injury.
Due to permanent visible scars or marks
Insurance pays for training to get you a new job if your injury stops you from working your old one.
Our expert lawyers will evaluate your case for FREE and tell you exactly how much you can receive.
Answers to the most common questions about workers’ compensation benefits in Illinois
Although you can file a claim on your own, it is highly recommended. Insurance companies often deny claims or try to pay less than what you are owed. A lawyer fights to ensure you receive the full value of your PPD and that your TTD benefits are not unjustly suspended.
At Illinois Compensation, we work on a contingency fee model. This means that “If we don’t win, you don’t pay”. The consultation is free, and you pay nothing upfront.
If your employer or their insurer denies your benefits, do not give up. You have the right to appeal this decision. We handle the entire appeals process, which includes: filing a formal petition with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission, gathering additional medical evidence, representing you in hearings, and fighting to get you what you are legally owed.
No, you cannot receive TTD and PPD simultaneously. The process works like this: first, you receive TTD (Temporary Total Disability) benefits during your recovery while you are unable to work. Once your doctor determines you have reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), TTD benefits stop. You are then evaluated for PPD (Permanent Partial Disability) benefits for any permanent impairment.
In Illinois, you must report your work injury to your employer within 45 days of the accident. To file your formal claim with the Workers’ Compensation Commission, you generally have 3 years from the date of the accident. However, it is crucial to act as soon as possible.
No, workers’ compensation benefits (TTD, PPD, and PTD) are NOT subject to federal or state income tax. This means the money you receive is net, and you do not have to pay taxes on it. However, if you also receive Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits, there may be an offset or reduction in one of the benefits.
If your condition worsens after you have received a PPD settlement, you may be able to petition to reopen your case. You will need new medical evidence that proves your condition has significantly worsened. It is important to document any change in your condition with your doctor and contact us to evaluate if you qualify for additional benefits.
Yes. PPD (Permanent Partial Disability) benefits are designed for situations where you can return to work but are left with permanent limitations. Working with your limitations does not eliminate your right to receive PPD compensation for your permanent disability.
