In Illinois, when you suffer a work-related injury, you are entitled to certain benefits under workers’ compensation. This includes Temporary Total Disability (TTD) payments, which are crucial for your financial stability during recovery. TTD payments are calculated as two-thirds of your average weekly wage. They are issued by your employer or their insurance provider.
These workers’ compensation payments are designed to support you until you can return to work, or reach maximum medical improvement. However, if your workers’ compensation check is late, or worse, hasn’t arrived at all, it’s essential to understand why this might be happening and what steps you can take.
Reasons Why Your Workers’ Comp Check Might Be Delayed
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Insurance Company Delays:
Often, insurance companies aim to minimize payouts on claims. This can result in delayed or missed TTD payments without a valid reason, which is considered acting in bad faith.
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Disputes Over Medical Care:
If there’s a dispute regarding the medical care you require, such as a procedure deemed necessary by your doctor, insurance companies might delay payments related to these claims.
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Processing Errors:
Sometimes, delays can be attributed to simple processing errors or administrative oversights within the insurance company or your employer’s payroll department.
Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits You Might Expect
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Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Payments:
These payments are meant to support you financially while you are unable to work due to your injury.
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Medical Expense Coverage:
Covers the cost of necessary medical treatments related to your work injury.
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Permanent Injury Compensation:
If applicable, you may be entitled to receive compensation for any lasting disabilities or impairments caused by your work injury.
How an Attorney Can Help: Legal Recourse for Late Payments
A knowledgeable workers’ compensation attorney can be instrumental in ensuring you receive your TTD payments promptly. Legal actions they can take on your behalf include:
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Filing a Petition with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission:
This can lead to penalties and fees against the insurance company for delays or denials without good reason.
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19(b) Petition for Immediate Hearing:
Your lawyer can expedite your case to an Arbitrator, often pressuring the insurance company to settle or pay out benefits to avoid trial costs.
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Penalties for Denied Medical Care:
If your insurance company unreasonably denies coverage for necessary medical care, your attorney can fight for your right to treatment.
Ensuring Timely Payments and Fair Settlements
If workers’ comp is not sending a check, hiring a trusted law firm like GWC Injury Lawyers, can make a significant difference. Our firm has a strong track record of advocating for workers’ rights, and assisting injured workers fight for their workers’ comp claims.
Our attorneys can take the necessary legal actions to penalize bad faith practices by insurance companies. We can also ensure your payments are received on time and that any settlements for permanent injuries are fair and just.
Next Steps to Take
If you find yourself asking, “What happens if my workers’ comp check is late?” The answer is clear: contact a reputable workers’ compensation attorney at GWC Injury Lawyers. With over $2 billion won for our clients in settlements and verdicts, we stand ready to help you navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation claims.
To ensure your rights are protected and your benefits are received without delay, consider scheduling a free, no-obligation consultation today.
Contact GWC Injury Lawyers:
- Phone: (312) 464-1234
- Online: Click here to chat with a representative
Act now to secure the compensation you deserve and prevent any further delays in your workers’ compensation benefits.
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