Subsequent Injuries Benefits Trust Fund (SIBTF)
California has long provided many protections and benefits for workers, and one of these is known as the Subsequent Injuries Benefits Trust Fund (SIBTF). This started in the 1940s when workers were returning from World War II. However, the trust fund is still being used in California today and can provide some benefits that go beyond the compensation settlement that an injured worker receives.
Here at Johnson Law Firm, we have decades of experience, as our firm dates back to 1990. We are also known for getting results and creating close relationships with our clients. If you are an injured worker and you want to know about all of your options, it helps to work with an experienced and knowledgeable attorney. Call our lawyers today to set up your initial consultation.
Who Can Qualify For The SIBTF?
The main qualification is that the injury a worker suffered has to be very significant. Often, the threshold is that it has to create a 35% permanent disability. The second thing to consider is that preexisting medical conditions are necessary. These could include previous work injuries, issues with medicine, psychiatric issues, orthopedic problems, hypertension, high blood pressure or diabetes – just to name a few examples.
Is It Just For Veterans?
No, the Subsequent Injuries Benefits Trust Fund may have started with a focus on veterans after World War II, but it is not exclusively for those who have served in the Armed Forces. It can be used by other workers all across the state of California who may have been injured while also having preexisting conditions. Even if you have never served in the military, you may still be able to qualify for these monthly payments.
What Do The Financial Benefits Look Like?
When someone has preexisting conditions and then suffers a subsequent injury, they do not get more medical care from the SIBTF. All they receive are financial benefits.
That said, these additional payments can go on top of workers’ comp benefits that may already have been granted. The maximum is $1,600 per week, depending on how much the worker was earning when they suffered that injury. In many cases, these benefits can last for life, so they are very substantial.
Call Now For A Consultation
Do you have preexisting medical conditions and have you suffered a workplace injury? Even if you already applied for workers’ comp benefits, you may still qualify for additional benefits under the SIBTF. This trust fund can be highly beneficial, but the process of applying for and obtaining benefits is complex, so it is important to work with an experienced attorney.
Just give us a call at 408-293-4818 or use the online contact form to set up a free initial consultation today. Se habla español.