Does Workers’ Compensation Pay Full Salary in South Carolina?

No, workers‘ compensation does not pay full salary in South Carolina. Instead, it provides a percentage of the worker’s average weekly wage while they are unable to work due to a work-related injury or illness. 

The amount paid depends on several factors, including the type of injury and the employee’s wage history. Here’s what you need to know about how workers’ compensation works in South Carolina. Contact an Aiken workers’ compensation lawyer for more information.

Understanding Workers’ Compensation in South Carolina

Workers’ compensation is a system designed to provide financial support to employees who are injured or become ill due to their job. In South Carolina, workers’ compensation benefits are managed by the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission. 

These benefits are meant to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs related to workplace injuries or illnesses.

While workers’ compensation ensures that injured employees receive financial assistance, it does not pay a full salary. It generally replaces a portion of an employee’s income for the duration of their recovery or until they can return to work.

How Much Does Workers’ Compensation Pay in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, the amount of wage replacement an injured worker receives through workers’ compensation is based on their average weekly wage (AWW). This is the average amount the employee earned over the 52 weeks before the injury. 

Once the AWW is determined, workers’ compensation pays two-thirds of that amount. However, there is a cap on the maximum amount you can receive, which changes annually.

Temporary Total Disability (TTD)

If your injury prevents you from working for an extended period, you may qualify for temporary total disability (TTD) benefits. This benefit compensates for the loss of your wages while you are unable to work. 

It generally lasts until you can return to your job or until the doctor determines that you have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). Keep in mind that:

• The two-thirds wage replacement applies up to the state’s maximum
  
• These benefits are tax–free, meaning you don’t have to pay federal or state taxes on them

Temporary Partial Disability (TPD)

If you are injured but are still able to work in a limited capacity, you may qualify for temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits. These benefits cover the difference between what you could earn before the injury and what you can earn now. 

If you’re still working but earning less than before, TPD benefits help make up for the lost income. Keep in mind that:

• The benefit pays two-thirds of the difference between your pre-injury and post-injury wages
  
• Like TTD benefits, TPD benefits are also tax-free

Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)

If you suffer a permanent disability due to your work injury but are still able to work, you may qualify for permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits. These benefits compensate for the long-term effects of the injury that result in a permanent loss of function or ability. Know that:

• PPD benefits are based on a percentage of your wage loss and are calculated using a formula set by the state
  
• PPD payments are made for a set number of weeks, depending on the severity of the disability

Permanent Total Disability (PTD)

If your injury is so severe that you can never return to work in any capacity, you may qualify for permanent total disability (PTD) benefits. These benefits are provided for workers who have suffered a total and permanent disability. 

PTD benefits pay two-thirds of your average weekly wage, with no time limit as long as the disability persists.

What Is the Impact of Workers’ Compensation on Your Salary?

While workers’ compensation benefits offer financial support, they typically do not fully replace your salary. The wage replacement is capped at two-thirds of your average weekly wage, and if your earnings exceed the state maximum, you won’t receive the full amount. 

This can result in a financial gap, especially for workers who were making high wages before their injury.

Additionally, workers’ compensation only pays benefits for the time you are unable to work due to your injury or illness. Once you can return to work, the benefits stop, and you begin receiving your regular salary again.

Factors That Affect Workers’ Compensation Payments

Several factors can influence how much workers’ compensation you receive in South Carolina. These include:

• Average weekly wage (AWW): The higher your pre-injury earnings, the higher your workers’ compensation benefits, up to the state maximum.
  
• Type of injury: Whether you qualify for temporary disability, partial disability, or permanent disability will determine the amount and duration of your benefits.
  
• Medical treatment: The costs of medical care are typically covered by workers’ compensation, but this does not directly impact your wage replacement rate.
  
• Return to work: If you can return to work part-time or at a lower wage, your benefits may be reduced.

Contact Our South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Today

So, does workers’ compensation pay full salary in South Carolina? No, it does not pay your full salary but rather provides a portion of your income during your recovery period.

If you have been injured at work and need help facing the workers’ compensation process, contact John Foy & Associates for a free consultation.

Our experienced South Carolina workers’ compensation lawyers will help you understand your rights and maximize the benefits you deserve.