Permanent Total Disability (PTD) is the highest level of wage loss benefit under Florida workers’ comp. It’s designed for injured workers who cannot engage in any kind of gainful employment.
How PTD Works
If approved, PTD pays two-thirds of your average weekly wage until age 75 (or for life if your accident happened after age 70).
Automatic PTD Eligibility
Florida Statute §440.15 says certain injuries automatically qualify, including:
- Amputation at or above the knee or elbow
- Loss of both hands, arms, feet, or legs
- Complete blindness
Proving PTD When it’s Not Automatic
If your injury isn’t on the automatic list, you can still qualify by showing:
- You cannot perform at least sedentary work
- There’s no suitable employment within a 50-mile radius of your home
Why PTD Cases Get Denied
- Carriers argue you can do “light duty” or desk jobs
- IME doctors give unfavorable work restrictions
- Vocational experts suggest unrealistic job options
Tip: Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs) and detailed DWC-25 forms from your doctor are critical to proving your case.