Suffering an injury at work is stressful, not only because of the pain but because it raises immediate worries about paying bills and caring for your loved ones. If you're injured at work in Ohio, you probably want to know: "When exactly does workers' compensation start paying for lost wages?"
Our Ohio workers' compensation lawyers explain clearly, step-by-step, how the process works, what to expect, and how to avoid common delays.
What exactly is workers' compensation in Ohio?
Workers' compensation is an insurance system that helps you financially if you're hurt on the job. In Ohio, the Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC) administers these benefits, making sure injured workers receive necessary medical care and financial support while recovering. Specifically, workers' comp provides:
- Medical coverage for treatment bills from the very beginning.
- Partial wage replacement if you're unable to work.
- Vocational rehabilitation to help you return to work or find suitable employment if your injury prevents returning to your previous job.
Who is eligible for lost wage benefits in Ohio?
You qualify for lost wage benefits if your injury or illness directly results from your job duties. Simply put, the injury must occur while performing tasks directly related to your employment, such as lifting, operating machinery, or carrying out assigned tasks at your workplace. For example, if you injure your back while lifting heavy materials during your shift or develop repetitive strain injuries from continuous tasks, you're likely eligible for workers' compensation benefits.
To establish eligibility clearly and avoid delays, report your injury to your employer immediately, ideally the same day it happens. You'll also need thorough documentation from medical professionals connecting your injury or illness to specific job activities. Finally, all required paperwork must be promptly submitted to the BWC. Following these steps quickly and accurately strengthens your claim and ensures you receive lost wage benefits without unnecessary complications.
Is there a waiting period before workers' comp pays lost wages?
Ohio law requires a seven-day waiting period before you receive wage replacement benefits. You won't receive payment for lost wages during this initial week off work. But the good news is medical treatment coverage starts immediately.
However, if your workplace injury or illness causes you to miss more than 14 consecutive days of work, Ohio law provides compensation retroactively for the first seven days. If your injury is severe enough to cause extended absence, you don't permanently lose pay for the initial waiting week.
How are lost wages calculated under Ohio workers' comp?
The BWC calculates your compensation based on your Average Weekly Wage (AWW). This is the average amount you earned per week over the previous year before your injury. Here's how it works:
- Typically, you'll receive two-thirds (66⅔%) of your AWW as wage replacement.
- The state sets yearly minimum and maximum limits on compensation, so exact amounts vary depending on your earnings.
- Payments continue until you're medically cleared to return to work or reach maximum medical improvement (MMI).
When can I expect my first workers' comp payment?
Realistically, when you file your claim, it usually takes a few weeks for the Ohio BWC to process and approve it. Once approved, payments typically begin shortly after. However, several factors may affect the timing:
- Completeness of documentation: Incomplete or inaccurate paperwork can delay payments.
- Employer disputes: If your employer disputes your claim or argues your injury isn't work-related, processing times can significantly increase.
- Severity and complexity of your injury: More complicated injuries may require additional investigation or medical evaluation, which can slow approval.
How can I speed up my Ohio workers' compensation claim?
You're not powerless in the process. Here’s how to expedite your claim to ensure quicker payment:
- Report the injury immediately: Don't wait to report your work accident, injury, or illness, even if the injury seems minor. Delays can cause suspicion and lead to questions about your claim’s validity.
- Seek medical attention quickly: Medical documentation directly affects how swiftly your claim gets approved. Communicate with your doctor about the injury’s connection to your work.
- Submit accurate documentation: Complete all BWC forms carefully, thoroughly, and quickly. Mistakes or omissions slow down the process.
- Keep communication open: Regularly follow up with your employer and BWC claims representative. Staying informed about your claim’s status helps you proactively address issues if they arise.
What should I do if my Ohio workers' comp claim is delayed or denied?
Sometimes, workers' compensation claims hit roadblocks. Your claim could experience delays or denial for several reasons, such as disputes about whether your injury is truly work-related, insufficient or unclear medical evidence, or simple paperwork mistakes. If your Ohio workers' comp claim faces any delay or denial, act quickly.
First, immediately contact your assigned claims representative at the BWC to find out exactly what's causing the issue. Clear communication helps pinpoint the problem, allowing you to address it directly and effectively.
Next, promptly provide any additional documentation or evidence requested by the BWC to reinforce your claim and clarify details about your injury. If the issue persists, you have the right to formally appeal the decision through Ohio's established workers' comp appeals process.
Because appeals can become complicated, you might also consider speaking with an experienced Ohio workers' comp lawyer. A lawyer can guide you through the appeals process step-by-step, help you gather strong supporting evidence, and advocate for your rights to maximize your chances of receiving the benefits you deserve.
Let an Ohio workers' comp lawyer fight for the benefits you deserve
If you've been hurt at work in Ohio, dealing with a delayed or denied workers' comp claim can quickly become overwhelming. At Hochman & Plunkett Co., L.P.A., we understand how stressful it is to pursue a claim when facing physical and financial challenges. Instead of struggling alone, let our experienced team step in.
We'll clarify exactly why your claim faced obstacles, gather critical medical evidence, and fight aggressively to overturn denials or delays. Our lawyers know Ohio workers' compensation laws inside and out, and we're committed to obtaining every dollar you're entitled to.
With more than 150 years of combined legal experience, our firm has successfully represented injured Ohio workers in cases involving construction accidents, repetitive stress injuries, workplace falls, healthcare-related injuries, and more. We make sure nothing is overlooked and advocate vigorously during appeals or settlement negotiations.
Take the first step by scheduling your free consultation. There's no risk and no obligation. Contact us today, and we'll explain how we can help you move forward confidently after your workplace injury.
"These guys definitely fight for you. My employer tried to get over on me, and H&P settled for 3xs what they originally promised me. Great work." – A.J., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐