If you are currently receiving workers’ compensation benefits after a workplace injury, you might be wondering if you can legally hold another job while recovering. It is a common question, especially when medical bills and lost wages start adding up. The answer is that it depends on your restrictions, your doctor’s approval, and the nature of the work — but taking the wrong step could put your entire claim at risk.
This is why it is important to understand the rules before making any move and to speak with a legal professional such as The Law Offices of Harley Merritt, a trusted workers’ compensation firm serving injured workers across Colusa, Glenn, Butte County, and Yuba City.
Understanding the Purpose of Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation exists to protect employees who are injured on the job. Its goal is to cover medical treatment, wage replacement, and potential long-term disability if needed. However, the benefits you receive are based on your ability (or inability) to work. That means if you are collecting disability payments because you cannot work — but you secretly take another job — the insurance company may claim fraud.
This is why consulting a knowledgeable workers’ compensation lawyer in the Yuba City region or nearby counties such as Colusa and Glenn is critical before taking any action.
The Difference Between Light Duty and a Second Job
Not all work is treated the same when it comes to workers’ compensation.
Light-duty work offered by your current employer is usually approved as long as your doctor confirms it is within your physical limits. Many employers do this to reduce their insurance costs and keep the employee on payroll.
However, accepting a second job elsewhere — especially one not reported to the insurance company — could raise concerns if it appears you are capable of more work than you claimed in your workers’ compensation paperwork.
If you have received medical clearance for certain limited job duties, you must stay within those exact restrictions, no matter where you are working.
When Working Another Job Might Be Allowed
In some cases, working another job is possible as long as you are honest and fully transparent with your doctor and the insurance carrier.
For example:
- If you worked two jobs before your injury and one does not conflict with your restrictions
- If your doctor has cleared you for modified duty or desk work
- If the second job involves less physical effortthan your primary job
Still, even if it seems allowed, it is dangerous to make assumptions without legal guidance. A respected work injury legal team serving areas like Colusa and Butte County can review your situation to make sure you do not put your recovery or your benefits at risk.
Situations That Can Put Your Claim in Jeopardy
Insurance companies actively look for reasons to deny or reduce claims. If they find that you are physically capable of holding another job, they might argue that you are capable of returning to your main job.
Your benefits may be challenged if:
- You work a job that conflicts with your doctor’s restrictions
- You fail to inform the insurance adjuster about secondary employment
- You appear on social media engaging in physical tasks beyond your claimed limitations
- Your earnings exceed what is legally allowed while receiving temporary disability benefits
Even innocent mistakes — such as not realizing you must report income — can lead to major penalties. This is why the guidance of The Law Offices of Harley Merritt is crucial before making any decision.
Why Legal Guidance Matters Before You Make a Move
Every workers’ compensation case is unique. What is acceptable in Glenn County might be challenged differently in Yuba City or Colusa, depending on the insurance company, employer attitude, and the doctor’s reports.
By speaking with an experienced attorney first, you gain:
- Clarity on what work activity is legal
- Protection from unintentionally committing fraud
- Guidance on income reporting requirements
- Peace of mind knowing your claim is secure
A professional firm like The Law Offices of Harley Merritt, which has years of experience helping injured employees throughout Colusa, Glenn, and surrounding areas, can evaluate your situation and advise you on the safest and smartest legal path forward.
What to Do Before Accepting Any New Job
If you are thinking about working another job while on workers’ compensation, follow these steps before making any move:
- Get a clear written reportof your medical restrictions from your doctor
- Do not accept any jobthat requires physical duties beyond that limit
- Consult with a trusted workers’ comp attorney immediately
- Do not hide any income or employment activityfrom the insurance company
Being transparent and legally protected is always better than taking a risk — especially when it comes to your long-term financial recovery.
Should You Ever Turn Down Light-Duty Work from Your Employer?
If your employer offers you a light-duty or modified position that matches your doctor’s restrictions, you should not refuse it without legal advice. In many cases, refusing approved work could legally allow the insurance carrier to stop your payments.
If the job seems unsafe or does not match your restrictions, speak with a workers’ compensation attorney right away rather than deciding on your own.
Protect Your Benefits — Make an Informed Decision
You have every right to protect your health and financial future. However, working another job while receiving workers’ compensation must be done carefully, legally, and with full transparency.
Do not risk losing your benefits, being accused of fraud, or damaging your claim long term. The smartest first step is always professional legal guidance.
Get Trusted Guidance from The Law Offices of Harley MerrittIf you are uncertain about taking a second job while receiving workers’ compensation benefits, the experienced legal team at The Law Offices of Harley Merritt is here to protect you. Our work injury law firm has helped injured workers throughout Colusa, Glenn, Yuba City, and Butte County make informed decisions without risking their benefits. Safeguard your future and get the right legal advice. Contact us today for immediate support.
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