Wage replacement.
	If you miss work because of your injury and your doctor certifies you are unable to work, L&I or your self-insured employer may pay for a portion of your lost wages, called "time‑loss compensation." However, the three days in a row of work immediately following your injury are considered a waiting period. L&I or your self-insured employer won't pay for these days, if they are the only ones you miss.
Questions workers have: Does time-loss compensation pay me the same amount I earned as a worker? No. Time-loss compensation benefits can replace some — but not all — of the wages you were earning. The benefit amount is 60 to 75 percent of the wage you were earning (up to a limit), depending on how many dependents you have. More in the Workers Guide to Industrial Insurance (F242‑104‑000) on pages 7 and 8. Individuals in domestic partnerships and common law marriages aren't considered married under the workers' compensation laws. The child's portion of time-loss compensation benefits must be paid to the person who has legal custody of your child or children. Notify your claim manager of any change in the custody of your child or children so the benefits can be paid to the appropriate individual. When do I begin receiving my time-loss checks? How long will they continue? If you are eligible, and no further information is needed, your first check arrives within 14 days of the day we receive notice from your doctor that you are off work. Checks are mailed about every two weeks, as long as your doctor certifies that you cannot work, supported by objective medical findings, and your claim manager receives your signed Worker Verification Form (F242‑052‑000). Is time-loss compensation taxable? No. The IRS considers time-loss compensation to be a disability benefit, not earned income.
Did you know? Time-loss compensation benefits won't cover all of your lost wages, only a fraction. Plus, it requires your doctors ongoing approval. Ask your employer if there are other jobs you can do to earn your old income while you recover.