Permanent Total Disability (PTD) Benefits in Georgia

If you suffer a severe workplace injury that leaves you unable to work again, you may qualify for Permanent Total Disability (PTD) benefits in Georgia. These benefits are a critical part of the state’s workers’ compensation system and provide long-term financial support to those with life-changing injuries. This page explains what PTD benefits are, who qualifies, how benefits are calculated, and why hiring a permanent total disability lawyer or PTD attorney can help protect your rights.

What Are Permanent Total Disability (PTD) Benefits?

Permanent Total Disability (PTD) benefits are designed for injured workers who can no longer perform any type of work due to their injury. Unlike temporary benefits, which help people recover and return to work, PTD benefits apply only when recovery is not possible, and the person is permanently and completely disabled.

Georgia law defines permanent total disability as a condition where the injured person is unable to perform any type of work available in the national economy. This includes light-duty or sedentary jobs. To qualify, the injury must be so severe that it rules out even the most basic employment.

Common Injuries That May Lead to PTD Benefits

Not every injury qualifies for PTD benefits. The injury must be serious and long-lasting. Common examples include:

• Spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Loss of both hands, arms, feet, legs, or eyes
• Severe burns or disfigurement
• Multiple limb amputations
• Chronic illnesses caused by workplace exposure (such as advanced lung disease)

In some cases, a combination of injuries or conditions may lead to permanent total disability, even if none of them alone would qualify.

How Much Are PTD Benefits in Georgia?

If you qualify for permanent total disability benefits, you are entitled to weekly payments equal to two-thirds of your average weekly wage before the injury, up to a maximum set by state law. As of 2025, the maximum weekly amount is $800. This number is adjusted periodically by the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation.

These benefits are generally paid for life unless certain conditions apply. In some cases, benefits may be offset or reduced if the injured worker receives Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or other benefits.

How to Prove Permanent Total Disability

Proving that you qualify for PTD benefits can be complex. Insurance companies often challenge PTD claims because they represent a long-term financial commitment. To prove your eligibility, you will likely need:

• Medical records showing the severity of your injuries
• Evaluations from treating physicians and independent medical examiners
• Evidence that you are unable to perform any gainful work
• Vocational expert testimony to explain why you can’t work in any job

Even if your treating doctor supports your PTD claim, the insurance company may demand a second opinion or deny the claim outright. That’s why having an experienced PTD lawyer or permanent total disability attorney is crucial.

Why You Need a Permanent Total Disability Lawyer

Navigating the Georgia workers’ compensation system can be frustrating and confusing, especially if your injuries are severe. Insurance companies often look for ways to minimize what they pay. They may deny claims, delay benefits, or offer lump-sum settlements that are far less than what you are owed.

A skilled permanent total disability lawyer can help in several ways:

• Gathering and presenting strong medical evidence
• Handling all communication with the insurance company
• Negotiating settlements and calculating lifetime benefits
• Representing you in hearings before the State Board of Workers’ Compensation
• Filing appeals if your claim is denied

If your injury has left you unable to work, you should not face this process alone. A PTD attorney will make sure your rights are protected from start to finish.

PTD vs. Other Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Georgia’s workers’ compensation system includes different types of benefits depending on the severity and duration of the injury. It’s important to understand the difference between these and PTD benefits:

• Temporary Total Disability (TTD) – For workers who can’t work temporarily but are expected to recover.
• Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) – For workers who can perform some work but not at full capacity.
• Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) – For workers who have a lasting injury but can still work in some form.
• Permanent Total Disability (PTD) – For workers who can no longer perform any work due to their injury.

PTD benefits are the most comprehensive and long-lasting form of compensation in this system. Unlike PPD or TTD benefits, PTD benefits may last for the remainder of the injured worker’s life.

Settlements in PTD Cases

In some cases, the injured worker and the insurance company may agree to settle the PTD claim for a lump sum. While this might provide immediate financial relief, it also ends your right to future benefits. A PTD lawyer can evaluate whether a settlement offer is fair based on your age, medical needs, and future lost wages.

Never accept a settlement without speaking with a permanent total disability attorney. Once you settle, your claim is closed, and you generally cannot reopen it.

What If Your PTD Claim Is Denied?

Unfortunately, many valid claims are denied by insurance companies. If this happens, you have the right to appeal. You can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge at the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation. This hearing functions like a trial, where both sides present evidence and arguments.

A permanent total disability lawyer will prepare your case and fight for the benefits you deserve. They will collect expert medical opinions, present vocational testimony, and cross-examine witnesses from the insurance company.

If you believe your condition has worsened to the point of permanent total disability, you should speak with a PTD Attorney right away to avoid missing important deadlines.

Call The Mann Law Firm Today And Speak With a Georgia PTD Lawyer

The Mann law firm has been helping clients with their workers’ compensation claim for over 30 years. We will be there for you throughout the entire process. Call us today at (478) 742-3381 for a free consultation.