If you’ve been injured at work and are unable to earn your regular wages, you are generally entitled to receive temporary disability (wage replacement) benefits. In California, these payments should typically begin within 14 days after your employer becomes aware of your injury and your doctor confirms you cannot work or have restrictions your employer cannot accommodate.
If you are not receiving your workers’ comp checks, several issues may be causing the delay:
Common Reasons for Delayed or Missing Payments
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Your employer hasn’t submitted required information
Missing wage or injury documentation can delay your claim. -
The insurance company is unaware of your lost income
If your reduced work status isn’t properly reported, payments may not start. -
Your doctor hasn’t provided disability status
Benefits depend on medical reports confirming you’re unable to work or have limitations. -
Your claim is delayed or under review
The insurance carrier may be investigating your claim before issuing payments.
How Often Should You Receive Payments?
Once approved, temporary disability benefits should be:
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Issued within 14 days of eligibility
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Paid every 2 weeks (14 days)
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Accompanied by a notice explaining how your payment amount was calculated
What If Your Checks Are Late or Incorrect?
If your payments are delayed, inconsistent, or incorrect:
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You may be entitled to penalties of up to 25% of the amount owed
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You have the right to dispute underpayment or delays
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Insurance companies are required to pay benefits on time and at the correct rate
What You Should Do Next
If you are not receiving your workers’ comp checks—or they are late or incorrect—it may be time to speak with an attorney. Delays often require legal action to resolve.
An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can:
-Investigate why your payments are delayed
– Ensure your benefits are calculated correctly
– Pursue penalties for late payments
– Take your case before a judge if necessary
Get Help Today
At The Law Office of Matthew Russell in San Diego, we help injured workers resolve payment delays and secure the benefits they are entitled to. If your workers’ comp checks are missing or inconsistent, contact us today to protect your rights and get your payments back on track. Please call for a free consultation at (619) 544-1506.
FAQ
In California, temporary disability payments should begin within 14 days after your employer is notified of your injury and your doctor confirms you cannot work or have restrictions.
Workers’ compensation benefits are typically paid every two weeks (14 days) as long as your doctor continues to certify that you are unable to work.
If your check is late, you should contact the insurance adjuster immediately. If delays continue, you may be entitled to penalties, and an attorney can help you enforce your rights.
Yes, payments can be delayed or stopped if there are disputes about your injury, missing medical reports, or if your doctor determines you can return to work.
If your benefits are delayed, denied, or inconsistent, a workers’ compensation attorney can help resolve the issue, recover unpaid benefits, and pursue penalties on your behalf.