You were hurt on the job and out of work for a while. You’ve been able to find a job that your injuries allow you to perform, but it pays less than your prior position paid. Can you take the job at a lower wage and still get benefits under a workers’ compensation claim? The answer is yes.
Under the New York workers’ compensation laws, you can make a claim for what is known as a “reduction in earnings,” also known as a “reduced earnings award.” The law allows you to recover up to 2/3rds of your average weekly wage, up to the statutory maximum. So, for example, if you were making $600 a week before your injury, you are entitled to $400 per week. If your new job only pays you $300 per week, you can file a claim for an additional $100 per week.
A specific requirement, though, is that you be under medical treatment to receive those benefits. You should schedule a monthly visit with your doctor and the doctor must document that the reason you are working a job that pays less money is that your work-related injury prevents you from returning to your former job.
What Happens When You Take a Job Paying Less—Can You Still Get Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
Experienced NYC | Brooklyn | Bronx | Queens Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
At Pyrros & Serres LLP, we handle all matters related to workers’ compensation and Social Security disability claims for people in Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx and across the greater New York City metropolitan area. Because of our reputation for effective advocacy, many of our new clients come to us as referrals from clients and other lawyers.
To learn more about the full scope of our practice, see our practice area overview page.
Pyrros & Serres LLP
Queens | NYC | Brooklyn | Bronx Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
