In workers’ compensation terminology, what does "temporary total disability" mean?

"Temporary total disability" refers to a situation where an injured worker is unable to perform any work duties due to an injury or illness, but this condition is not considered permanent. It signifies that the disability is expected to last only for a limited duration, after which the worker is anticipated to return to their previous job or occupation.

In the context of workers' compensation, this classification is crucial because it helps determine the benefits that an injured employee may receive during the period when they cannot earn a wage. The designation acknowledges the severity of the disability while also recognizing that it is expected to improve.

The other choices describe different conditions: permanent inability to work indicates a lasting condition, partial reduction in work hours suggests that the individual can still engage in some work activities, and a minor injury with no pay impact implies that the injury is so minimal that it does not affect the worker’s ability to earn. None of these situations align with the definition of "temporary total disability," which is centered on a complete inability to work for a limited time.