Can I Work A Part-Time Job While Collecting Workers’ Compensation?

The workers’ compensation system is designed to help injured workers return to their job and continue earning a living, so it should come as no surprise that working in a part-time time capacity is not only allowed after an injury, it’s encouraged. However, there will be some things you’ll want to keep in mind if you’re planning on working part-time while you recover after a work injury. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at what you need to know about working a part-time job while collecting workers’ compensation.

Working Part-Time While On Workers’ Compensation

Many people consider picking up some part-time work while they try to make a full recovery after their on-the-job injury because they aren’t the kind of people who can just sit and do nothing. Whether you’re taking on some light duty work at your original employer or you want to drive for Uber or DoorDash for a couple of hours a day, you’re well within your rights to do so, but you will want to be mindful of a few things. Here’s what you need to know if you’ll be working part-time while collecting workers’ compensation:

Must Stay Within Restrictions – Any work you perform must adhere to the physical restrictions that have been put in place by your doctor. If you’re claiming that you can’t sit for extended periods while you recover, but then you drive for Uber on the side, you may be jeopardizing your injury benefits because your part-time work goes against medical advice.

It Must Be Reported – You must report any income you earn from part-time work, as it can impact how much you receive from workers’ compensation. Your temporary partial disability benefits are based on your normal income and how much money you’re currently earning, so if you are bringing in some money, that will be factored into your compensation equation. Failing to report earned income while collecting workers’ compensation is a form of fraud.

Inform Relevant Parties – Make sure your decision to pursue part-time work is met by approval from interested parties. You should get clearance from your doctor and at least inform your employer and their insurance provider of your intent to pursue part-time work. This ensures there are no surprises and it remains easier for you to stay within your work restrictions while picking up some part-time work while on workers’ compensation.

Assume You’re Being Watched – Finally, assume that you are being watched at your part-time position. If you’re able to work in some capacity, it’s possible that the insurance company believes that you are lying about the extent of your injuries, and they may try to investigate your situation. As has been the theme with this blog, make sure you always stay within your doctor’s restrictions during your part-time position and do not try to hide this work from anyone. You’re allowed to work part-time while collecting workers’ compensation, but know that this decision could kick up additional investigations from the insurance company, so always assume you’re being watched.

If you’re truly considering pursuing part-time work while you’re collecting workers’ compensation, run it by your injury lawyer to get their thoughts on the matter. If it could jeopardize your case or your benefits, they may tell you that it’s simply not worth it for the time being. We admire your desire to return to work, but at the same time, we’d never want you to jeopardize the benefits you’ve earned, so weigh all your options and talk things over with your lawyer.

For more information about working part-time while collecting workers’ compensation, reach out to Dean and the team at Margolis Law Firm today at (612) 230-2700.