What is the difference between total disability and partial disability?

Total disability and partial disability are two different categories of disabilities that exist under the workers’ compensation law in Washington. A total disability means an injury that is so severe that the worker cannot work at all, or if they can work, it’s at a substantially reduced capacity. A partial disability means a worker is still able to work, but at a reduced capacity or with reduced wages. When a worker is determined to have a total disability, the worker is eligible to receive weekly payments instead of wages for up to 5 years from the date the injury occurred. These payments are typically two-thirds of the worker’s average wages prior to the injury. In addition, the worker may be eligible to receive benefits for vocational rehabilitation and medical treatment. For a partial disability, the worker may be eligible for wage-loss payments if they are unable to earn more than 80% of their pre-injury wages. This payment is typically two-thirds of the difference between the worker’s pre-injury wages and the wages they can currently earn. The worker may also be eligible for medical benefits to enable them to perform their job. In summary, total disability means the worker is unable to work at all or substantially reduced capacity, and therefore qualifies for weekly payments and medical benefits. Partial disability means the worker is able to work at reduced wages, and therefore qualifies for wage-loss payments and medical benefits.

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What is the difference between total disability and partial disability?

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