Navigating the workers’ compensation system can be an uphill battle. For instance, knowing how many hours you can work while on workers’ comp benefits is crucial to making informed decisions.
That’s why if you or a loved one is in a workers’ comp dilemma and would like some straightforward advice, you should call Schwartzapfel Lawyersat 516-342-2200 or visit us online today.
In the meantime, let’s break down the basics of workers’ comp and answer the question, “How many hours can you work on workers’ comp?”
Can You Work While On Workers’ Comp?
Yes, you can work while receiving workers’ comp benefits as long as you adhere to the specifications laid out by your treating physician. This could mean taking on a part-time, light-duty, or modified-duty role. New York State, among other states, actively encourages employers to offer such roles.
You should note, however, that you’re generally not allowed to work full-time. Doing so can lead to the cessation of your workers’ comp benefits. Simply put, abide by the rules or risk losing the financial safety net workers’ comp provides.
What Exactly Is Light-Duty Work?
In workers’ comp jargon, light-duty work refers to roles adapted to your current physical condition. Tasks can range from cleaning equipment to filing paperwork. The important factor is that these jobs should not conflict with your physician’s recommendations.
For instance, if your doctor says you can’t lift more than nine pounds, a light-duty role at the office doing secretarial tasks could be on the table.
How Do You Secure Light-Duty Work?
To land a light-duty role, consult with your treating physician to get a report outlining your work limitations. This will likely require coordination with your state’s workers’ comp board and potentially your employer’s insurance provider to create a work plan. The goal is to make sure you keep your medical and payment benefits intact.
If your employer can’t offer a modified-duty role that fits your needs, you could potentially work a different job altogether. Just remember, any income you earn outside must be reported to your workers’ comp insurance provider, as it may affect your benefit calculations.
When To Accept Or Decline Light-Duty Offers
If your employer provides a role that aligns with your doctor’s orders and you turn it down, you stand to lose your workers’ comp benefits. Making a good-faith effort to collaborate with your employer is something the state workers’ comp bureau will often be keen to observe.
Your cooperation, or lack thereof, will likely factor into whether you continue receiving payments and medical benefits. If you’re unsure about your rule here, don’t hesitate to reach out to Schwartzapfel Lawyers at your earliest convenience. Our seasoned attorneys have more than (150) years of combined experience successfully handling workers’ compensation claims and can help you, too, when you dial 516-342-2200 today.
What Are Salary Continuation Programs In Workers’ Comp?
While the nature of workers’ comp means you usually receive up to two-thirds (⅔) of your standard wages, salary continuation allows you to pocket your full paycheck. The caveat? Those earnings are taxable, unlike traditional workers’ comp benefits.
How Does Workers’ Comp Work If You Have Multiple Employers?
Before you clock in at another gig, know that working multiple jobs while on workers’ comp requires doctor’s clearance. Don’t skip on reporting every single job and earnings to your insurance company unless you have an appetite for penalties or, even worse, losing your benefits.
Legal Guidance For Multi-Job Scenarios
Consult a lawyer if you’re juggling more than one job while filing for workers’ comp. They’ll give you the lowdown on how your earnings from all positions could affect your benefits.
What Should You Consider During Workers’ Comp?
Unable to work due to your condition? It happens often, and it puts you in a position that can feel scary and overwhelming.
Here are some pointers to keep your finances from spiraling:
- Initiate Workers’ Comp ASAP: The sooner you start your claim, the sooner you can start collecting compensation. That said, please ensure that you are mindful of your state’s mandated waiting period prior to the activation of any benefits.
- Maximize Your Benefits: To optimize your financial compensation, you should familiarize yourself with your state’s method for calculating workers’ compensation payments. Here, qualified workers’ comp lawyers can help you fight for a better package.
- Know Your Time Limit: As each state has its own cap on how long you can receive workers’ comp, it pays to know your state’s rules.
- State-Specific Occupational Services: Some states, like Massachusetts, offer vocational services as part of their workers’ comp benefits, which can assist you in securing future work.
- Explore Other Disability Benefits: For long-term conditions, federal disability benefits may be a suitable alternative to traditional state benefits.
Since workers’ comp regulations are often a mishmash of state laws, job specifics, and medical conditions, you should consult a local lawyer for the most accurate and up-to-date info. To speak with a skilled NYS workers’ comp attorney now, you can call Schwartzapfel Lawyers at 516-342-2200 or visit us online to schedule your free case evaluation today.
What Are An Employer’s Obligations For Workers’ Comp Insurance?
In New York, employers are mandated to have workers’ compensation insurance. Skipping this step isn’t just a faux pas; it’s a violation that could get the top brass personally liable.
The penalty can be as steep as $2,000 per (10)-day period of noncompliance. So if you get injured at work or while in the performance of job-related duties, rest assured your employer should have an insurance policy in place to cover your medical expenses.
How Do You File For Workers’ Comp?
When you’re injured, the clock starts ticking. Let’s break down the process of filing for workers’ compensation into four (4) simple steps:
- Seek medical treatment.
- Inform your employer within (30) days.
- Contact Schwartzapfel Lawyers.
- File for compensation benefits.
Note: Most workers’ compensation claims get processed without assigning fault to the worker or employer. For more on this, the Workers’ Compensation Board is your go-to authority. Alternatively, you can call Schwartzapfel Lawyers now at 516-342-2200 or visit us online to schedule your free consultation.
How Long Do Workers’ Comp Benefits Last In New York?
Next, let’s talk about timelines. New York law allows you to file a claim up to two years from the date of the injury. Your healthcare provider will typically categorize your disability into one of four ratings:
- Temporary Total Disability: Completely unable to work, but only temporarily.
- Temporary Partial Disability: Partially unable to work, but again, temporarily.
- Permanent Total Disability: You are no longer able to work in your current capacity.
- Permanent Partial Disability: You can work, but not like you used to.
Now, depending on the disability rating, you can get benefits ranging from (225) to (525) weeks. The exact number of weeks and the amount you receive depends on your individual circumstances.
What Should You Know About Denied Claims And Appeals?
You’ve filed your workers’ compensation claim, and you’re waiting for the green light to get those much-needed benefits. Then, you get a denial letter in the mail. As disheartening as it may sound, you’re not alone. In point of fact, approximately one-quarter of all claims get initially denied, but this is far from the end of the road.
Why Do Claims Get Denied?
There’s a slew of reasons why a claim might get a thumbs-down. These can range from filing deadlines missed to discrepancies in medical reports or even a lack of sufficient evidence to prove that the injury is work-related. Sometimes, employers or insurance companies may dispute the validity of your claim, citing these or other factors.
What Is The Workers’ Comp Appeal Process?
Here’s where the New York Workers’ Compensation Board comes into play again. If you think your claim was unfairly rejected, you can file an appeal. This means you’ll need to attend a hearing overseen by a judge who specializes in workers’ comp issues.
While the process may be laced with legalese and procedural requirements, it’s not an insurmountable challenge. It’s vital to gather all supporting documents, medical records, and any evidence that strengthens your case. Be prepared to present your arguments clearly and succinctly.
You don’t have to go it alone. To this end, retaining an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can be your ticket to a successful appeal.
They can help you prepare your case, represent you during any hearings, and, by and large, guide you through the entire workers’ compensation process. Moreover, with knowledgeable attorneys at your side, you can significantly improve your chances of turning that initial denial into an approval.
Get In Touch With Schwartzapfel Lawyers Today
It’s true that the waters of workers’ comp can be muddy. And so, the best way to stay on the right track is to get advice from a trusted workers’ comp lawyer. Especially if you’re unsure about continuing to work while receiving benefits, you should call the seasoned attorneys of Schwartzapfel Lawyers by dialing 516-342-2200 without delay. It will be our honor and privilege to discuss your case with you, no matter your situation.
One phone call can make all the difference in your workers’ comp journey. Make the smart choice — contact the award-winning team of Schwartzapfel Lawyers for a free consultation and so much more!
DISCLAIMER: Nothing on this page should be considered legal advice. You should seek the appropriate counsel your situation requires. For more information, call 1-516-342-2200 now!
Sources:
Schwartzapfel Lawyers, P.C. | Fighting For You
Workers’ Compensation Understanding the Claims Process | Workers’ Compensation Board
Workers’ Compensation Need Help With Your Claim? | Workers’ Compensation Board
Workers’ Compensation Disability Classifications | Workers’ Compensation Board
