Q: Is workers' comp the same as disability?
A: No. Workers' compensation applies to work related injuries only and pays wage loss and medical benefits arising out of the work injury based upon state laws. Disability can include a disability policy which normally excludes work related injuries and pays benefits based upon the policy language. Disability is also used to refer to Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income both of which are federal programs governed by federal law. Furthermore the eligibility requirements are different with each of these programs.
A: The answer is generally no. Workers Compensation means that you are not able to perform the duties of your job due to a work injury. When you recover then you are expected to return to work at your job. Disability on the other hand as defined under Social Security means you are not able to perform any gainful work due to a permanent injury or illness. This being said, a workers comp injury can become disabling for social security purposes if the injury or illness ends up preventing the employee from being able to return to any gainful employment.
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