Workers' comp can involve several kinds of payments, and they don't all work the same way. This is a plain-language overview so you can recognize what you're receiving and keep a clear record of it. Exact amounts and eligibility depend on your wages, your medical status, and your specific claim — always go by your own official notices, not by general figures.
Temporary disability (TD)
Temporary disability partially replaces wages while you're recovering and can't do your usual work. In California, TD is generally two-thirds of your average weekly wage, subject to a state minimum and maximum that change each year.
There's usually a short waiting period before TD starts, and it continues while you're medically unable to work, up to limits set by law.
Permanent disability (PD)
If your injury leaves lasting effects after you've recovered as much as you're expected to, you may receive permanent disability payments. PD is based on a medical evaluation of your condition and a rating process.
Other payments you may see
- Mileage reimbursement for travel to approved medical appointments
- A Supplemental Job Displacement Benefit (SJDB) voucher toward retraining, in some cases
- Death benefits, in cases involving a fatal injury
What to check on every payment
Workers' comp benefits are often not taxed, but tax treatment can vary — confirm your situation with a qualified tax professional. When a payment arrives, confirm what type it is, what period it covers, and whether it matches what your notices say you're owed.
For each payment, keep a line in your file with:
- Payment type (TD, PD, mileage, and so on)
- The period it covers
- The amount
- The issue date and check or reference number
- The date you expected it — and the date it actually arrived
- Any follow-up you still need to make
Primary sources
Official California resources — go to these for the authoritative details:
Keep it all in one place.
WorkAid gives you a private, living claim file to track payments, dates, documents, treatment, and communication — all in one place, under your control.
This guide is general information about the California workers' compensation process, not legal or medical advice. Individual claims vary. WorkAid is not a law firm, is not a medical provider, and does not represent you. For decisions about your claim, rely on your own official notices and, where needed, a qualified professional.