Can I Start a New Job While Receiving Worker’s Compensation?

If you’ve been injured on the job and are receiving workers’ compensation benefits, you may not be excited about the idea of going back to the same workplace. Some people injured at work are interested in a new career. Others may not be able to do their old job due to the injury they sustained. This may lead to questioning whether you can start a new job while getting these benefits.

The Answer in the Eyes of the Law

When you look at the law, you’ll see that you are allowed to change employers any time you would like. This does not change simply because you were getting worker’s compensation benefits from a current employer. There is nothing to stop you from choosing to seek employment elsewhere.

However, there are certain laws related to the benefits that are important for you to be aware of. Taking a second job or a different full-time job may lead to a change in the benefit you receive.

There are three main things to be aware of if you are considering additional or new employment while receiving workers’ compensation benefits:

• Workers’ compensation benefits may not be canceled for taking a job that pays less than the initial position.
• Benefits also cannot be canceled if you make the choice to change your job.
• These benefits also can’t be canceled because you choose to do light-duty work for a lower amount of pay.

However, if you choose to take a different job, it can affect the number of benefits you receive. In many cases, you will still get a partial payment. This will often be less than what you started to receive when you first acquired workers’ comp benefits.

In addition, if the new position pays the same as the old one, the benefits will end. This can also be something to consider if you decide to take on a second job. The benefits you get may be reduced since you are bringing in an additional amount of income.

While you can get a new job while receiving workers’ comp, there are many details to understand. It’s always a good idea to speak with an attorney from Grewer Law Group before you make any decisions.

Speak with a work injury lawyer from Grewer Law Group to learn more about your options. Our experts can help you file your compensation claim and help if you are denied what you are rightfully owed.