If your doctor writes a note requiring you to be completely off work for more than 14 days, you can receive benefits beginning the first day you cannot work. The timeline will vary based on how many days your doctor says you must stay completely off of work. If your note states a temporary work absence of more than 7 days but less than 14, you can receive benefits starting on the 8th day. The severity of your injuries and your doctor's recommendation affect the timeline.