When a workplace injury leaves you unable to work, understanding your disability benefits becomes critical. Minnesota’s workers’ compensation system provides different types of benefits depending on whether your disability is temporary or permanent. This guide explains the key differences between temporary disability and permanent disability benefits, how each type works, and what you need to know to protect your financial future.
Why Choose Robert Wilson & Associates for Your Disability Benefits Claim
Since 1991, Robert Wilson & Associates has helped injured Minnesota workers handle disability claims. Our team of four attorneys focuses on workers’ compensation and personal injury law. We have recovered substantial settlements and awards for our clients. We hold Super Lawyers recognition, membership in the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and recognition from the National Trial Lawyers Top 100. We handle every case on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront—we only get paid if you win. When you work with us, you get a collaborative team approach dedicated to securing your disability benefits.
What Are Temporary Disability Benefits?
Temporary disability benefits provide wage replacement when you cannot work due to a workplace injury. Minnesota recognizes two types of temporary disability:
Temporary Total Disability (TTD) applies when you cannot perform any job duties. You receive two-thirds of your lost wages, up to a maximum that adjusts annually. As of October 1, 2025, the maximum is $1,536.84 per week. This maximum is recalculated each October based on 108% of the Statewide Average Weekly Wage (SAWW). For current rates, visit the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry at dli.mn.gov. Benefits are provided for up to 130 weeks. Benefits begin on the fourth day of disability (the three-day waiting period is unpaid initially). However, if your disability lasts for 10 calendar days or more, you will be retroactively paid for those first three days. This ensures you are fully compensated for longer-term injuries.
Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) applies when you can work in some capacity but earn less than your pre-injury wages. You receive two-thirds of the difference between what you earned before the injury and what you earn now. TPD benefits are limited to 225 weeks of paid benefits (for injuries before October 1, 2018) or 275 weeks of paid benefits (for injuries on or after October 1, 2018) or 450 weeks after the date of injury, whichever occurs first.
Key eligibility requirements include:
- Injury occurred during employment
- Medical documentation of work-related injury
- Inability to work or reduced work capacity
- Timely claim filing
Understanding Permanent Disability Benefits
Permanent disability benefits address lasting impairments that prevent you from returning to your pre-injury work. Minnesota provides two categories of permanent disability:
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) applies when you have a lasting impairment but can still work in some capacity. A medical professional assigns an impairment rating. Minnesota’s state schedule applies this rating to determine your benefit amount. PPD claims often require documentation of your medical condition and work history.
Permanent Total Disability (PTD) applies when your injury prevents you from returning to gainful employment permanently. PTD benefits continue until age 67 for injuries before October 1, 2018, and until age 72 for injuries on or after October 1, 2018. If injured after age 67, benefits are limited to five years from the start of payment. These benefits provide long-term financial security for workers with severe, permanent injuries.
The key difference from temporary benefits is that permanent benefits address long-term or lifetime limitations rather than temporary work absences. Understanding workplace injury classifications helps you prepare for the transition from temporary to permanent status.
How Disability Classification Affects Your Settlement
The type of disability classification you receive directly impacts your settlement value and ongoing benefits. Temporary disability benefits have clear end dates and limited duration. Permanent disability benefits, particularly PTD, can provide lifetime income replacement and significantly increase your total recovery.
This is why accepting a quick settlement without understanding your disability classification can cost you thousands of dollars. An experienced Minnesota workers’ compensation attorney reviews your medical evidence, work history, and injury severity to ensure you receive the correct classification and appropriate compensation. Before accepting any workers’ compensation settlement, consult with a legal professional who can explain how your specific disability classification affects your long-term financial recovery.
The Role of Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)
Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) is the point at which your medical condition stabilizes. Further treatment is unlikely to improve your condition. This milestone is important because it triggers the transition from temporary to permanent disability classification.
Your doctor determines when you’ve reached MMI through medical evaluation. Once MMI is established, temporary disability benefits typically end. Permanent disability benefits begin if you have a lasting impairment. Understanding when MMI occurs helps you prepare for the transition. You’ll receive appropriate benefits during each phase of your recovery.
Minnesota also provides vocational rehabilitation services to help injured workers return to employment. These services may include job training, job placement assistance, and other support to help you transition back to work after a workplace injury.
Frequently Asked Questions About Disability Benefits
How long does it take to receive disability benefits in Minnesota?
You should report your injury immediately, ideally within 14 days. While 14 days is the target to ensure full benefits, Minnesota law generally allows up to 30 days to report an injury without penalty. In some cases (such as physical incapacity), you may have up to 180 days. Do not assume you are barred from a claim just because you missed the 14-day window—contact us to review your specific situation.
Can my employer terminate my temporary disability benefits?
No. Minnesota law protects your disability benefits. Your employer cannot terminate them without legal justification. Additionally, your employer cannot retaliate against you for filing a workers’ compensation claim. Benefits continue until you return to work or reach Maximum Medical Improvement.
What happens if I return to work part-time?
If you return to part-time work while still recovering, you may qualify for Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) benefits. TPD covers the difference between your pre-injury earnings and your current part-time earnings. We calculate this at two-thirds of that difference. Your benefits adjust based on your actual earnings.
How is permanent partial disability calculated?
PPD benefits are based on an impairment rating assigned by a medical professional. This rating is applied to Minnesota’s state schedule, which assigns a percentage value to different types of impairments. The percentage determines your benefit amount. An attorney can help you understand how your specific impairment rating translates to benefits.
What evidence do I need for a permanent total disability claim?
PTD claims require strong medical documentation showing that your injury prevents you from working in any capacity. You’ll need medical records, test results, and often testimony from a vocational expert. This expert explains why you cannot return to any form of gainful employment. Your age and work history are also considered. These claims are complex and benefit greatly from legal representation.
Next Steps: Getting Help With Your Disability Claim
If you’ve suffered a workplace injury in Minnesota, don’t handle the disability benefits process alone. Robert Wilson & Associates provides free consultations to review your case and explain your options. We handle claims on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing upfront. Our team serves Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the Northwest Suburbs.
Call (612) 334-3444 or complete our contact form to schedule your free consultation today. Let our team fight for the disability benefits you deserve.