Can a worker receive Social Security Disability benefits and benefits from a work-related injury?

Yes, if an injured worker is disabled from working and it is anticipated that their disability will continue for one year or longer, then he or she could be eligible for Social Security benefits. If an injured worker is approved for Social Security benefits will it have any affect on his or her Workers’ Compensation benefits? Yes. The Social Security Administration will take an offset or reduce your Social Security benefits by the amount of any Temporary Total Disability benefits received from Workers’ Compensation if you are receiving both at the same time. In addition, they may take an offset for Permanent Partial Disability benefits obtained in your Workers’ Compensation case if the appropriate forms are not utilized. In other words, the lump sum settlement that you receive in your Worker’s Compensation case may reduce or eliminate your Social Security Disability benefits if the proper settlement papers are not utilized. Your Workers’ Compensation attorney will ensure that the ...  more