What Are Temporary Disability Benefits?

Temporary disability under COIDA means the worker is unable to work for a limited period due to a workplace injury or disease, but is expected to recover fully and return to work. Benefits include:

• Medical expenses: Full coverage of reasonable medical treatment related to the injury
• Temporary incapacity payments: Wage replacement during the period the worker cannot earn
• Rehabilitation costs: Physical therapy and vocational rehabilitation to facilitate return to work
• Transport costs: Reasonable travel expenses for medical treatment

These benefits continue until the worker recovers, reaches maximum medical improvement, or the claim is finalised.

How Much Does COIDA Pay for Temporary Disability?

The temporary incapacity payment is calculated based on the worker’s earnings at the time of the injury. The general formula is:

Key points:

• Payments are capped at a maximum amount set by the Compensation Fund
• Payments begin after a waiting period (typically a few days)
• The worker must provide regular medical updates to continue receiving payments
• Payments stop when the worker returns to work or reaches maximum medical improvement

The exact calculation depends on the worker’s earnings history and the specific circumstances of the claim.

Duration of Temporary Disability Benefits

Temporary disability benefits continue for as long as the medical evidence supports ongoing incapacity. There is no fixed maximum duration — each case is assessed individually based on:

• Medical reports from the treating doctor
• Progress reports (W.CI.5 forms)
• Independent medical examinations if required
• The nature and severity of the injury

Once the worker reaches maximum medical improvement, the Compensation Fund either discontinues benefits (if fully recovered) or converts the claim to permanent disability (if residual impairment remains).

Employer Responsibilities During Temporary Disability

Employers play an important role in the temporary disability process:

• Report the injury within 7 days using form W.CI.2
• Co-operate with the Compensation Fund’s investigation
• Provide accurate earnings information for benefit calculations
• Hold the worker’s job open where reasonably possible
• Implement return-to-work programmes as required by the 2026 amendments
• Maintain contact with the worker about their recovery and expected return date

The 2026 amendments specifically strengthened employer obligations regarding rehabilitation and return-to-work planning. Employers must now actively participate in getting injured workers back to productive employment.