What does TTD mean in workers’ compensation?
Workers Compensation - November 28, 2025
TTD in workers’ compensation stands for Temporary Total Disability, a benefit that replaces part of your wages when a work-related injury leaves you unable to work. It’s one of Illinois’ four disability benefits and is meant to support injured employees while they recover. If you’re not sure if you qualify. A Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer from Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates can review your situation and explain your options.
What does Temporary Total Disability benefits cover?
Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits cover part of your lost wages when a work-related injury keeps you from doing your job. These disability benefits usually apply right after the accident, when your doctor confirms you’re unable to work at all. While medical bills are covered through workers’ compensation, TTD helps you keep up with your financial needs while you recover.
How are TTD benefits calculated in Illinois?
A worker’s average weekly wages are used to calculate how much they will receive as part of their TTD benefits. An injured employee may receive two-thirds of their average weekly wage in disability benefits. The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC) posts the statewide average weekly wage (SAWW) every 6 months to make sure that disability benefits are based on the most recent wage data. The IWCC also posts minimum and maximum ranges for each type of benefit based on the state’s weekly wage rates.
How long and often can I receive TTD benefits?
Under Illinois law (820 ILCS 305/8), you can receive TTD benefits if your work-related injury keeps you from working for at least three days. Payments begin on day four. If you’re unable to work for more than 14 days, those first three days are paid retroactively.
You’ll continue receiving TTD benefits until your doctor clears you to return to work or says you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). Payments follow the same schedule as your normal paycheck.
What happens when you return to work in a reduced capacity?
Once your doctor allows you to return to work, your TTD benefits end. But if you can only work light duty or part-time, you may qualify for temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits. TPD helps cover the gap between your normal average weekly wage and your reduced earnings. Workers usually receive two-thirds of the difference until they can return to their full job duties.
Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates helps you secure TTD benefits after a workplace accident
Disability benefits can be the difference between staying afloat and falling behind after a work-related injury. But keeping track of deadlines, paperwork, and insurance company demands can feel overwhelming when you’re trying to heal. Working with Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates helps ensure you don’t miss important steps that could affect your benefits.
Our attorneys handle the paperwork, communicate with the insurance company, and guide you through every stage of your workers’ compensation benefits. To get clear answers about your rights, call (800) 985-1819 or contact us online for a free consultation.
