Question 1

What is the AMA Guides and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

The American Medical Association Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment (AMA Guides 6th Edition) is the standard most states use to calculate impairment ratings. Your rating depends on which edition your state adopts — the 6th Edition typically produces lower ratings than the 5th.

Question 2

Can I dispute my impairment rating?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You have the right to an Independent Medical Examination (IME) — or in some states a Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) or Agreed Medical Evaluator (AME). Workers represented by an attorney average 30–50% higher impairment ratings than those without representation.

Question 3

How long does it take to get a permanent disability rating?

Accepted Answer

Impairment ratings are assigned only after you reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) — usually 6–24 months after the injury. Surgical cases typically reach MMI later than conservative treatment cases.

Question 4

What's the difference between impairment rating and disability rating?

Accepted Answer

Impairment rating measures physical loss of function (assigned by a doctor). Disability rating adjusts for factors like age, education and occupation (assigned by the workers' comp board in some states). California in particular uses a separate disability schedule on top of the impairment rating.

Question 5

Can pre-existing conditions affect my permanent disability rating?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Insurance carriers often argue that part of your impairment is from a pre-existing condition. However, workers' comp still covers aggravations — if the work injury made your condition materially worse, that portion is compensable.

Question 6

How does permanent disability affect my settlement amount?

Accepted Answer

Your impairment rating is one of the biggest drivers of settlement value. Doubling your rating (say from 10% to 20%) often more than doubles your settlement because higher ratings increase future medical coverage, vocational rehab, and in some states open a lifetime pension right.

Workers' Comp Impairment Rating Calculator 2026

What Is an Impairment Rating?

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