Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Benefits in Georgia

Understanding Your Rights After a Work Injury

If you’ve been hurt at work and can’t return to your job—at least for a while—you may qualify for Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits under Georgia’s workers’ compensation system. These benefits are designed to replace a portion of your lost wages while you recover. Many injured workers feel confused about what they are entitled to and how to get help. That’s where a qualified temporary total disability lawyer comes in.

This page will explain what TTD benefits are, how they work, and how a TTD attorney can help you through the process.

What Are Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Benefits?

Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits are weekly payments made to injured workers who cannot work at all due to a job-related injury. These benefits are part of Georgia’s workers’ compensation program, which is meant to help employees recover both physically and financially after being hurt on the job.

If a doctor determines you are completely unable to work—even temporarily—then you are likely eligible for TTD benefits. These payments help you pay your bills while you focus on getting better.

How Much Are TTD Benefits in Georgia?

Under Georgia law, TTD benefits equal two-thirds (⅔) of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum set by the state. As of 2025, the maximum benefit is $800 per week. So, if you normally earn $900 per week, you would receive about $600 each week in TTD benefits.

Here’s a quick example:

If you made $750 per week before your injury, you would receive about $500 per week in TTD.If you made $1,500 per week, you would receive the maximum $800 per week (even though ⅔ would be $1,000).

A TTD lawyer can help calculate your correct benefit amount and ensure your employer and insurance company treat you fairly.

How Long Can You Receive TTD Benefits?

TTD benefits can continue for up to 400 weeks from the date of your injury. However, they can stop sooner if you are able to return to work in any capacity, or a doctor says you have reached “maximum medical improvement” (MMI), which means you are as healed as you’re going to get.

If you return to work but in a reduced role with less pay, you may qualify for Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) benefits instead. A skilled temporary total disability attorney can help you transition smoothly and make sure your rights are protected.

When Do TTD Benefits Start?

There is a 7-day waiting period before TTD benefits begin. That means if you’re out of work for less than a week, you won’t get paid. But if your injury keeps you out for 21 days or more, you’ll be paid retroactively for that first week.

This rule often confuses people and leads to underpaid claims. It’s a great reason to work with an experienced TTD attorney who can explain your rights clearly and push back if the insurance company tries to avoid paying what you’re owed.

Common Problems with TTD Benefits

Many injured workers run into challenges when trying to claim or continue receiving TTD benefits. These problems include:

• Delays in benefit payments
• Disputes about your ability to work
• Denial of your claim altogether
• Pressure to return to work too early
• Lowballing your average weekly wage

What If My Employer’s Doctor Says I Can Work?

Georgia’s workers’ compensation system often requires you to see a doctor chosen by your employer. Sometimes, these doctors may clear you to work—even when you’re still in pain or not fully healed.

If this happens, you have the right to request a second opinion from another doctor on the employer’s “panel of physicians.” If you’re not sure how to do that or which doctor to trust, a TTD lawyer can walk you through the process.

Your attorney can also help fight any decision that seems unfair or rushed. Medical evidence is key in TTD cases, and your lawyer can help you build the strongest possible case.

What Happens After TTD Ends?

Once you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI), your TTD benefits will end. At that point, a doctor may give you a permanent impairment rating, which can lead to Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) benefits if you qualify.

In other situations, you may be able to return to light-duty work. If you earn less in your new job than before your injury, you could be eligible for TPD benefits to make up the difference.

This transition is often tricky, and mistakes can cost you money. A temporary total disability attorney can help guide your next steps and maximize any additional benefits you may be entitled to.

Do I Need a TTD Lawyer?

While it’s possible to apply for TTD benefits on your own, having a qualified TTD attorney increases your chances of receiving full and fair compensation. The process involves legal deadlines, medical documentation, and communication with insurance companies—who are not on your side.

Here’s how a temporary total disability lawyer can help:

• File your claim correctly and on time
• Gather and present strong medical evidence
• Negotiate with the insurance company
• Represent you at hearings, if needed
• Appeal a denied claim
• Help you transition from TTD to other benefits (like PPD or TPD)

You shouldn’t have to fight this battle alone—especially while you’re hurt.

Why Choose the Mann Law Firm?

At the Mann law firm, we’ve been helping injured workers in Georgia for over 30 years. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial stress a workplace injury can cause. Our team is dedicated to making sure you receive the full workers’ compensation benefits you deserve, including TTD. We offer personalized attention, honest answers, and aggressive representation. If you’re looking for a temporary total disability lawyer who truly cares, contact us today at (478) 742-3381 for a free consultation. At the Mann law firm, you always come first.