Can You Work While on Workers’ Compensation?
When you’re coping with a work-related injury and are receiving workers’ compensation benefits, you might not always be fully immobilized. In a case where you have an injury that is preventing you from performing your usual job functions, but feel that you could perform other work that isn’t as physically demanding, you may want to know: can you work while on workers’ compensation?
The short answer is: it depends on your situation and your physical ability. If the physical ability of the work you’re performing at your secondary job is less than the job for which you’re seeking workers’ comp, it should not affect your ability to pursue workers’ compensation benefits. This of course assumes that you have been released to return to work with restrictions that are within your secondary job, not the job for which you are seeking workers’ compensation benefits.
For example, if your primary job is physically demanding (such as construction work), but your secondary job does not involve physical exertion (such as writing or data entry), working your secondary job should not interfere with your ability to receive workers’ compensation for an injury sustained at your primary job.
What if I Already Had a Second Job at the Time of My Injury?
Keep in mind: Even in cases such as this where it may not be strictly prohibited to continue working while receiving workers’ compensation, there is still a risk of jeopardizing your benefits claim entirely. As such, you should consult with an experienced workers’ comp attorney before making any decisions.
Speak With the Chicago Workers’ Comp Attorneys at Rubens & Mulholland
If you are in the unique situation where an injury prevents you from performing your primary job duties, but you believe you should still be able to work at your pre-existing second job while receiving benefits, it is recommended to speak with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney first. The Chicago-based attorneys at Rubens & Mulholland can work with you to review the details of your case and provide the professional counsel you need so you can move forward without jeopardizing your benefits. Contact us online today to request a consultation, or call our 24-hour toll-free line at (866) 890-9640 with questions.