Can You Work Another Job While on Workers’ Compensation?
Working while on workers’ compensation can be a beneficial move in certain situations. However, it’s important to understand whether you are legally allowed to work another job while receiving workers’ comp, as there are certain restrictions in place. Here, we explain when and how you can work another job while on workers’ compensation.
When Can You Work Another Job?
The general rule of thumb is that you can’t work another job while on workers’ comp unless you receive permission from your employer’s insurance carrier. This permission should never be assumed–in many cases, you must wait until the insurance company determines a “maximum medical improvement” has occurred (meaning that the injury is unlikely to improve further). Even if you get permission, you may be subject to certain restrictions while working another job.
Are There Limitations to Working Another Job?
When working another job while on workers’ compensation, you often cannot do the same type of work you did before your injury. Depending on the state, you might be limited in the hours you can work, the type of job you can take, the wages you can earn, or any combination of these restrictions. You will likely need to report any income you receive from the other job to your employer’s insurance carrier.
What Are the Benefits of Working Another Job While on Workers’ Compensation?
Working another job while on workers’ comp not only has the potential to increase your income, but also may help you recover from your earlier injury by:
- Expanding your skill set: A new job gives you a great opportunity to learn new skills, which can make you more valuable to employers. Additionally, a new job can help shift the focus away from your injury and onto the skills and abilities you can bring to the table.
- Remaining active and engaged: Staying active during the healing process can help you stay on top of your recovery and build or retain your strength. In many cases, working another job can encourages this activity without being overly strenuous.
- Maintaining morale: While insurance payments help to alleviate some of the financial strain accompanying an injury, it’s difficult to replace the emotional satisfaction of work. Working another job can provide this emotional satisfaction.
Conclusion
Working another job while on workers’ compensation is a solution that requires careful consideration and can be a useful option in certain cases. Make sure to review the legal restrictions in your area, as these vary based on where you live. Additionally, you will need permission from your employer’s insurance carrier before you can work another job while collecting workers’ comp.