Impairment Ratings and Disability Certification

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Impairment Ratings and Disability Certification	en español

Be rated a partial disability before L&I closes the claim.
	When an injured worker has completed treatment but has suffered a permanent disability, he/she may qualify for a permanent partial disability award. Some awards are set by state law, but many others must be rated by a qualified doctor. Contact Us About Pension Benefits for more information.
Questions workers have: What's a permanent partial disability? This means you can still work, but your physical ability has been impaired. Will I lose my eligibility for a disability award if I go back to work? No. Permanent partial disabilities are based on the degree of your impairment, not on whether you can work. Do medical benefits and any time-loss compensation continue after I receive a disability award? No. After the claim is closed, these benefits end (unless the claim is reopened). How do I read more about disability awards and pensions? Learn about disability awards in the Worker's Guide to Industrial Insurance (F242‑104‑000). The information is on pg. 13-15. Learn about pensions in L&I's Pension Benefits brochure (F242‑352‑000). Permanent partial disability award schedules. Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) maximum award amounts for specified disabilities are established by the Legislature in RCW 51.32.080 (www.leg.wa.gov). The amounts are adjusted on July 1 of each year, based on the change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). PPD awards are calculated on the PPD awards schedule in effect for the date of injury. These award schedules are the maximum benefit available. If the PPD award is more than three times the State Average Monthly Wage (SAMW), the benefit is paid in monthly payments according to the schedule established in RCW 51.32.090 (www.leg.wa.gov), with the initial payment equal to three times the SAMW. 8% interest is paid on the unpaid balance. PPD Award Schedule 2006 through 2009. PPD Award Schedule 2002 through 2005. Award Down Payment. What if I live or move out of state? You may have to return to Washington for an independent medical examination. If needed, L&I or your self-insured employer will pay for your transportation, lodging, meals, and wage replacement for lost wages to attend the exam.

Be certified permanently and totally disabled before L&I closes the claim.
	If you lose (or lose the use of) both legs, both arms, an arm and a leg, or your vision, you are eligible for a monthly pension by law, even if you can return to work. If, after medical and vocational evaluations, L&I finds that your injury prevents you from ever become gainfully employed, you may receive a pension. Contact Us About Pension Benefits for more information.
Questions workers have: How do I find out more about disability awards and pensions? Learn about disability awards in the Worker's Guide to Industrial Insurance (F242‑104‑000). The information is on pg. 13-15. Learn about pensions in L&I's Pension Benefits brochure (F242‑352‑000).

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