When a worker in Ohio is injured on the job or develops a work-related illness, they may be eligible for temporary total disability (TTD) benefits through the state’s workers’ compensation system. But even if the claim is approved, injured employees often find themselves confused about why they’re not paid right away. That’s because of something called the “waiting week.”

Understanding how the waiting week works, and when payment kicks in, can help claimants better plan for financial disruptions during recovery. In Ohio, the rules around this period are specific and enforced by the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC).

This article explains what the waiting week is, how it affects your compensation timeline, and when you may eventually be paid for it.

What Is the Waiting Week in Ohio Workers’ Compensation?

In Ohio, the waiting week refers to the first seven calendar days following a work-related injury or occupational illness during which the injured worker does not receive temporary total disability compensation.

This period functions like a deductible—it delays benefit payments to account for minor injuries that may resolve quickly without needing wage replacement.

Why Does Ohio Have a Waiting Week?

The idea behind the waiting week is to reduce administrative burden and cost by filtering out short-term claims that resolve within a few days. The assumption is that many workers will return to the job quickly after minor injuries, making disability payments unnecessary.

Other states have similar policies, though the length and rules vary. In Ohio, the seven-day waiting period is only unpaid initially—there are situations where you can recover that lost week retroactively.

When Does the Waiting Week Apply?

The waiting week applies in nearly all cases where temporary total disability benefits are awarded. It begins the day after the injury occurs, assuming the injured worker cannot return to work.

Key points:

• The first seven calendar days following the injury are unpaid.
  
• These do not have to be workdays—they’re counted as calendar days.
  
• Medical benefits are still covered immediately; the waiting week only applies to wage replacement.
  

When Is the Waiting Week Paid Retroactively?

If an injured worker is unable to return to work for 14 consecutive days or more, the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation will retroactively pay for the waiting week. This means the worker receives full TTD compensation starting from day one.

This rule incentivizes continued documentation and follow-through on treatment, since ongoing disability can lead to retroactive reimbursement.

Example Scenario:

• Day 1: Worker injures back while lifting equipment on the job.
  
• Days 1–7: Unable to work; receives no TTD compensation.
  
• Day 8 onward: Begins receiving TTD payments.
  
• If still off work by day 14: BWC goes back and pays for the initial 7-day waiting week.
  

If the disability lasts fewer than 14 days, that initial week remains unpaid.

What Does the Waiting Week Mean for Injured Workers?

For workers with limited financial resources, the unpaid waiting week can be a serious stressor. Missing even one week of wages can affect a household’s ability to pay bills or meet basic needs.

That’s why planning ahead is important:

• Report the injury promptly. This starts the claims process quickly and ensures no time is lost.
  
• Document your medical restrictions. The sooner you establish that you can’t work, the sooner the disability period is defined.
  
• Track days carefully. Keep a written record of each day you’re medically unable to work to support retroactive payment if you reach the 14-day threshold.
  

Does the Waiting Week Apply to All Types of Benefits?

No. The waiting week applies only to temporary total disability compensation. It does not apply to:

• Medical treatment costs: Covered from the date of injury.
  
• Permanent partial disability awards
  
• Death benefits
  
• Lump sum settlements
  

The waiting week is tied specifically to wage loss due to short-term work absence.

Can Employers or Insurance Companies Misapply the Waiting Week?

Unfortunately, yes. Some employers or third-party administrators may miscalculate when the waiting period begins or incorrectly determine when the 14-day threshold is met. This can lead to underpayment or delayed benefits.

Examples of errors include:

• Mislabeling partial workdays as full return-to-work days
  
• Disputing whether time off was medically necessary
  
• Overlooking days off due to scheduling miscommunication or treatment gaps
  

These issues are typically resolved by presenting medical records and other documentation to the BWC or Industrial Commission of Ohio. If needed, a legal advocate can file for a hearing.

Recent Discussions About Changing the Waiting Week

There have been discussions in recent years about reforming Ohio’s waiting week system, especially during public health emergencies or economic downturns. Advocates argue that lower-wage workers are disproportionately impacted by this unpaid gap.

While no major changes have passed recently, the conversation continues among workers’ rights groups, lawmakers, and employers. As of 2025, however, the seven-day waiting period and 14-day retroactive payment rule remain in place.

How to Strengthen Your Disability Claim in Ohio

If you're facing time off work due to a job-related injury, a strong claim increases your chances of receiving both wage replacement and retroactive waiting week compensation.

Tips to protect your claim:

• See an approved physician as soon as possible
  
• Follow your treatment plan and attend follow-up appointments
  
• Keep all documentation, including work excuses and injury reports
  
• Check in regularly with your employer and claims representative
  
• Challenge inaccurate records if you believe your work status is misrepresented
  

If your claim is delayed, denied, or underpaid—including issues with the waiting week—it’s wise to seek legal guidance.

Call Brandon J. Broderick For Legal Help

Navigating Ohio’s workers’ compensation system can be frustrating, especially when you’re recovering from an injury and worried about lost wages. If you're unsure whether you qualify for waiting week payment, or if your benefits have been delayed or denied, Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law is here to help.

Our team understands how the Ohio BWC operates and how to ensure your rights are protected throughout the process. We’ll review your claim, challenge wrongful denials, and fight for the compensation you deserve—including retroactive payment for time you couldn’t afford to miss.

Don’t let the system leave you behind. Contact Brandon J. Broderick today for a free consultation and let us stand by your side.