If you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) and your doctor has given you an impairment rating of 15% or higher, you may qualify for Supplemental Income Benefits (SIBs) under Texas workers’ compensation law.
This impairment rating is the threshold for eligibility. If your rating is below 15%, you will not qualify for SIBs. If it’s 15% or greater, you may be entitled to monthly financial support when you cannot return to your pre-injury job.
How SIBs Work in Texas
SIBs are monthly benefits calculated using your Average Weekly Wage (AWW). They are not automatically granted—you must reapply every quarter (every three months) by submitting DWC Form-52.
Your eligibility will depend on several factors, including whether you can return to work, your efforts to find suitable employment, and whether your doctor documents a total inability to work.
Why the 15% Impairment Rating Matters
The impairment rating is the threshold for SIBs eligibility:
- 15% or higher: You may qualify for Supplemental Income Benefits.
- Below 15%: You are not eligible, regardless of other circumstances.
This rating reflects the long-term impact of your injury on your ability to work. Because of its importance, insurance carriers often challenge ratings. Having a Texas workers’ compensation attorney review your case can help protect your right to benefits.
Job Search and Work Restrictions
If any doctor finds that you are capable of working—even in a light-duty or sedentary role—you must show evidence of a good-faith job search. On your DWC Form-52, carefully document each work search by:
- Applying only for jobs within your medical restrictions
- Listing hiring managers (not clerks or front desk staff)
- Providing accurate phone numbers for verification
- Applying even when companies are “not hiring”
- Meeting the required number of applications each week
If your doctor supports a total inability to work, they must provide a strong narrative explaining why. Without this documentation, your request may be denied.
Cooperation with DARS Programs
To keep receiving SIBs, you must also cooperate with the Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS). Refusing to participate in DARS programs can cause you to lose your benefits. Call 800-628-5115 to register at no cost.
Why You Need a Workers’ Comp Attorney in Texas
Even with a 15% impairment rating or higher, SIBs are not guaranteed. Insurance companies often dispute claims, deny applications, or argue that your work search is insufficient.
An experienced Texas workers’ compensation lawyer can:
- Protect your impairment rating from being unfairly lowered
- Ensure your DWC-52 is correctly prepared
- Gather medical documentation that supports your claim
- Fight denials and appeal decisions
Get Help with Your Texas Workers’ Compensation Claim
If you’ve reached MMI and have an impairment rating of 15% or higher, you may qualify for Supplemental Income Benefits in Texas—but getting them isn’t easy. Bailey & Galyen is here to guide you through the process, protect your rights, and fight for the benefits you deserve.
Contact Bailey & Galyen today at 844-402-2992 to schedule a consultation with a knowledgeable Texas workers’ compensation attorney. We’re here to protect your rights and help you fight for the benefits you deserve.
