Workers' Compensation Benefits
Core benefits
California provides medical care, temporary disability (TD), permanent disability (PD), supplemental job displacement benefits (SJDB), and death benefits. TD generally pays two-thirds of average weekly wages, subject to statutory minimum and maximum rates, and begins after a three-day waiting period unless the injury causes more than 14 days of disability. PD is paid at two-thirds of the permanent disability rate with a 15% increase for the first 70% of PD under the current schedule. Death benefits include burial expenses and weekly payments to dependents.
Traps
Questions frequently test the waiting period and whether it is excused. Another common trap is confusing TD maximum with PD maximum rates, or applying the 15% adjustment incorrectly. Watch for SJDB eligibility (voucher amounts based on disability percentage and employer size) and return-to-work rules.
Rule of thumb
For TD, remember 3 days / 14 days: three-day waiting period, excused if disability exceeds 14 days. Worked example: an injured worker earns $900/week; TD is two-thirds, or $600/week, subject to the statutory maximum. If disability lasts 20 days, the waiting period is excused and TD is owed from day one.
Key concepts
Know average weekly wage calculations, TD/PD rates, life pension, death benefit tiers, and voucher amounts.