Michigan lawyer explains what to do when workers’ comp won’t pay benefits and gives other sources of financial relief.
Michigan law requires employers to cover medical bills and lost wages for employees who are hurt on-the-job. A frequently asked question is: What to do when workers’ comp won’t pay? Unfortunately, some employers refuse to follow the rules and obstruct workers’ comp claims. Insurance companies are also notorious for disputing payment for no good reason. Here are some suggestions on how to survive when the employer or insurance company say no to workers’ comp.
Most Important Thing To Do When Workers’ Comp Won’t Pay Benefits
One of best things to do when worker’s comp won’t pay benefits is hire an attorney who can request a formal hearing. A magistrate will decide if work injury benefits should be paid. Do not count on the employer or its insurance company to do the right thing. Seek penalties and enforce legal rights!
Many workers’ comp cases eventually settle for a lump sum cash payment. Regrettably, this process can take months and disabled employees suffer during this long process. Here are some resources that our clients use when workman’s comp denies your claim.
If workers’ comp won’t pay benefits you may be able to use health insurance for medical bills
Medical treatment is critical for employees suffering from a work accident. Workers’ comp is supposed cover all medical bills. When a workers’ comp claim is disputed, it is possible to submit medical bills to group health insurance. This ensures medical treatment continues while the workers’ comp claim proceeds.
Employees who later receive a workers’ comp settlement or award will need to reimburse the group insurance company for money it paid out. An experienced workers’ comp lawyer will be able to reduce the amount of payback to ensure maximum recovery for the injured employee. Medicaid and Medicare will also cover disputed medical bills and should not be overlooked as a resource.
Unemployment benefits for immediate cash
Employees hurt at work can also get unemployment benefits when laid off and not receiving lost wages. The idea is that an employee would be working under restrictions but for their employer not having a job available for them. The employer may get a credit against anything paid but it provides immediate cash.
Long-term disability is an option
Many disabled employees are covered under long-term disability (LTD) that covers 80% lost wages. LTD is easier to get because a person does not have to prove disability was caused by work. Payment is conditioned upon reimbursement out of any workers’ comp settlement or award. These liens can be resolved easily.
Social Security Disability (SSDI)
Disabled employees can receive both workers’ comp and SSDI at the same time. There will be an offset if combined payment exceeds a specific amount. Applying for SSDI is a good option when workers’ comp won’t pay benefits. It possible to avoid any offset or overpayment by settlement of the workers’ comp claim.
Injured on the job? Call our attorneys now for a free consultation!
If you were injured on the job and workers’ comp won’t pay you benefits, call now to speak with an experienced attorney, or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. We’re here for you.
Our attorneys have been exclusively helping injured workers in Michigan for more than 40 years. Our attorneys can help you better understand work comp laws and what happens after someone has been hurt on the job. To see what our own clients have to say about the caring, compassion, and communication they received from us, you can read in their own words about their experience here on our testimonials page from clients we have helped.
Michigan Workers’ Comp Lawyers never charges a fee to evaluate a potential case. Our law firm has represented injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 35 years. Call (844) 316-8033 for a free consultation today.
Related information:
Michigan Workers’ Comp Calculator: How Is Workers’ Comp Calculated?
