If you receive workers’ compensation benefits from your current employer but are considering a new job, you should speak with a workers’ compensation attorney at Cruz & Associates before making any career-related decisions. Laws surrounding workers’ compensation benefits vary depending on the state where you live and work; our Phoenix and Atlanta attorneys can provide information on the laws that apply to your specific situation.
Can I change jobs while receiving workers’ compensation benefits?
After a workplace accident that causes an injury, there is typically an extended period of time during which the employee is out of work and recovering from the injury. During this recovery period, the worker has plenty of time to think about their health and life in general. And it’s not uncommon for someone to reconsider their career choice during this time. Perhaps they want a job that’s less dangerous, less taxing on their body as they age, or perhaps they realize they simply aren’t as passionate about their work as they once were. Whatever the reason, our workers’ compensation attorneys at Cruz & Associates understand that receiving benefits shouldn’t stop you from having a job you enjoy.
However, that doesn’t mean we advise you to quit your job and look for a new one immediately. Although you may want to leave your job to start a new one in a different position or even in a completely new field, we don’t suggest you quit your current job until you’ve fully recovered from your injury. Starting a new job can often result in a reduction in benefits. You’re receiving workers’ compensation benefits for a reason, and you don’t want to lose those benefits, especially medical coverage, before you’re fully recovered.
Every job and the workers’ compensation benefits they provide vary, so call your local Cruz & Associates office for a free initial consultation. Once we understand your situation, we can provide you with the most informed legal advice to ensure you have all the resources you need to make the decision for yourself.
Considering starting a second job?
If you’re thinking about staying in your current position at your current company and simply adding a second job to earn an additional source of income, you should be careful. Although you are legally allowed to hold a second job while receiving workers’ compensation benefits, there are certain things you should consider to continue receiving your workers’ compensation benefits.
The first aspect to consider is your medical clearance. If you are medically able to hold a second job, your employer may wonder why they are required to pay you workers’ compensation. You may also be asked to prove that the duties of your second job are not as strenuous as the duties of your primary job. This is sometimes required to show your employer that you are well enough to work certain jobs, but not necessarily well enough to work in a physically demanding position.
In addition to having to prove your medical clearance, a second job could also reduce the amount of money you receive from your workers’ compensation checks. This is just one of the many situations where having a workers’ compensation attorney can be very beneficial, so you don’t make a genuine mistake and end up losing your benefits as a result.
Contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney today.
If you have any additional questions about starting a new job while receiving workers’ compensation benefits, call our team of workers’ compensation attorneys in Atlanta and Phoenix. We speak Spanish and English, and after you tell us about your individual circumstances, one of our legal representatives will be able to offer expert advice on what to do in your situation. Every worker’s workers’ compensation situation is different, just as every employee is different, so we encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. See what Cruz & Associates can do to help you make the best decision for your career and financial future. Call us today at (404) 444-1111 in Atlanta or (602) 777-6666 in Phoenix.
