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What is the Difference Between Workers' Comp and Disability Insurance?

The policies may be similar, but workers' compensation protects the company and the employees from the costs of job-related injuries and illnesses. In contrast, disability insurance covers an employee for medical conditions outside the workplace. Consulting dedicated and experienced Workers' Compensation lawyers can help you determine which option is right for you and the corresponding benefits. 

What are workers' comp and disability insurance? 

Workers' compensation and disability insurance provide financial assistance to sick or injured employees who cannot work.

Workers' compensation insurance is required in most states for businesses with employees. It covers medical expenditures if an employee is injured or sick at work. It can also help compensate employees for missed pay if they cannot work for an extended period.

Disability insurance compensates a person's lost income if they become disabled and cannot work due to an injury or sickness that occurs outside of employment. While this coverage is not normally needed, certain states have state disability programs that mandate it for all qualifying employees. 

The main distinction is that workers' compensation only covers workplace injuries, accidents, and illnesses, whereas disability insurance can cover non-work-related situations. 

Is disability insurance a form of health insurance? 

Disability insurance is frequently mistaken for health insurance that covers disabilities; however, it is a sort of income insurance that provides financial support when a person is unable to work due to an injury or medical condition.

Income support can range from 50% to 70% of a person's lost income and can be used by the recipient however they see fit. However, it is most commonly used to cover living costs and medical bills. 

The two forms of disability insurance are: 

  • Short term disability 

Short-term disability pays out compensation for three to six months. Many employers provide this coverage as a component of a group insurance plan, with premiums paid by either the employer or the employees. 

  • Long term disability 

Long-term disability provides disability compensation for several years and is intended for longer-term or sometimes even permanent disabilities. Individuals normally acquire this from an insurance carrier, while some businesses offer it as optional coverage paid for by payroll deductions. 

Talk to an attorney today. 

While there are key differences between workers' comp insurance and disability insurance, sometimes it can be difficult to figure out which one is required for your case. An experienced workers' comp attorney can help you with this and provide legal guidance and answers to any questions you may have. 


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