Key Takeaways
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD) and Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) are two types of workers’ comp benefits in Georgia that help replace lost wages after a workplace injury.
- TTD applies when you can’t work at all, while TPD applies when you can work but earn less than before.
- The amount and duration of benefits differ—and knowing which one applies can maximize your compensation.
What are temporary total disability (TTD) benefits?
Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits apply when your work-related injury or illness prevents you from working at all—either temporarily or while you recover.
To qualify:
- A doctor must take you out of work completely
- Or your employer can’t offer light duty that matches your restrictions
Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 34-9-261), you can receive TTD benefits after 7 missed workdays, unless you’re out for 21 days or more—in which case, you get paid for the first week too.
What are temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits?
Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) benefits apply when:
- You can return to work with restrictions
- But you’re earning less than before the injury
For example: If you used to make $800/week but now earn $400/week on light duty, TPD helps cover part of the difference.
These benefits are outlined in O.C.G.A. § 34-9-262 and aim to support injured workers who are recovering but not yet at full capacity.
How much can I get from TTD or TPD benefits in Georgia?
| Type | Weekly Benefit Amount | Maximum Weekly Payment (as of 2025) |
| TTD | ⅔ of your average weekly wage | Up to $800/week |
| TPD | ⅔ of the difference between old and current wages | Up to $533/week |
Example:
If you earned $900/week before your injury:
- TTD: $600/week (⅔ of $900)
- If you return and earn $450/week:
TPD = ⅔ of ($900 − $450) = $300/week
How long do TTD and TPD benefits last?
| Benefit Type | Maximum Duration |
| TTD | Up to 400 weeks (unless catastrophic injury) |
| TPD | Up to 350 weeks from date of injury |
If your injury is catastrophic (e.g., paralysis, amputation, severe brain injury), TTD can continue for a lifetime.
What happens if I’m switched from TTD to TPD?
Sometimes, your treating doctor may release you for light duty work, and your employer may offer a lower-paying role. In this case:
- Your benefits switch from TTD to TPD
- You may be required to return—or risk losing benefits
- If your employer doesn’t offer work, you may stay on TTD
You have a right to challenge changes in your status or benefit level. An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can review whether the job offer is suitable, safe, and legal under Georgia law.
Georgia Workers’ Comp Disability FAQ
Do I have to pay taxes on TTD or TPD benefits?
No. Workers’ comp benefits are not taxable income in Georgia.
Can I receive both TTD and TPD at the same time?
No. You receive one or the other—depending on your ability to work.
What if I’m fired while receiving benefits?
You may still be entitled to ongoing TTD or TPD, depending on your medical restrictions and job availability.
What if I refuse a light-duty job offer?
If the job meets your doctor’s restrictions and is legitimate, your benefits may be reduced or cut off.
How can I make sure I’m getting the right benefit level?
Work with a Georgia workers’ comp attorney who can review your case and ensure your employer’s insurance company isn’t shortchanging you.
Hurt at Work? Let Hines Law Fight for Every Dollar You Deserve.
At Hines Law, we help injured workers across Atlanta, Austell, Marietta, Gainesville, Jonesboro, and Dalton navigate Georgia’s complex workers’ comp system—and recover full TTD or TPD benefits.
Call 404-226-4236 for a free consultation. Don’t guess your rights—know them.