In Alabama, workers' compensation benefits generally continue until the injury fully heals, the employee reaches maximum medical improvement (MMI), or the statutory limits for wage loss and disability are met; most claimants receive up to 104 weeks of wage‑replacement benefits, with extensions possible for permanent impairment.
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Medical treatment benefits
Medical expenses are covered without a time cap as long as the treating physician deems them necessary for the employee's recovery. Once the employee attains MMI—meaning the condition is stable and unlikely to improve—future medical payments cease unless a new complication arises.
Wage‑loss (temporary total disability) benefits
Temporary total disability (TTD) replaces a portion of lost wages when the employee cannot work at all. Alabama law limits TTD to 104 weeks (two years) from the date of injury. The benefit rate is two‑thirds of the employee's average weekly wage, up to a state‑set maximum.
Partial disability benefits
If the employee can perform some, but not all, of their usual duties, temporary partial disability (TPD) applies. TPD also follows the 104‑week ceiling and pays two‑thirds of the wage difference between pre‑injury earnings and post‑injury earnings.
Permanent disability benefits
When an injury results in lasting impairment, permanent partial disability (PPD) or permanent total disability (PTD) benefits may be awarded. PPD uses a schedule of specific body parts and loss percentages to calculate a lump‑sum or periodic payment. PTD, granted only for total loss of earning capacity, provides ongoing benefits for life, subject to periodic medical reviews.
Factors that can extend benefits
Several circumstances allow benefits to exceed the standard limits:
- Re‑injury or aggravation of the original condition resets the benefit clock.
- Approval of a "future medical expenses" provision when the injury is expected to require ongoing care.
- Successful appeal of an initial denial, which can restore lost weeks.
Comparison of benefit types
| Benefit type | Duration limit | Payment basis |
|---|---|---|
| Medical treatment | Until MMI or new complication | Actual cost, no cap |
| Temporary total disability | 104 weeks | 2/3 average weekly wage |
| Temporary partial disability | 104 weeks | 2/3 wage difference |
| Permanent partial disability | Varies by impairment schedule | Scheduled lump sum or periodic |
| Permanent total disability | Lifetime (subject to review) | 2/3 average weekly wage |
Key takeaways for claimants
Understand that Alabama caps wage‑loss benefits at 104 weeks, but medical coverage persists until MMI. Permanent disability benefits are calculated differently and may last indefinitely. Promptly reporting injuries, keeping thorough medical records, and consulting a qualified workers' comp attorney can help ensure you receive the full benefit period you're entitled to.