Workplace injuries happen frequently in the U.S. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were roughly 2.6 million nonfatal ones in 2021 alone. Fortunately, many of these injured workers were eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
Workers’ compensation programs provide financial benefits to employees who suffer injuries at work or develop work-related illnesses. If you receive benefits, though, you might eventually be able to return to your place of employment. This might mean the end of your benefits.
Working after your injury
It is not uncommon for injured workers to be able to do some jobs while not being able to return to their pre-injury roles. If you cannot perform your previous job duties, your employer might offer you a different job. This job might pay less than you earned before, however. Luckily, you probably do not have to try to live with a smaller paycheck.
Taking advantage of the wage loss differential
In Connecticut, there is a special provision of workers’ compensation law known as the wage loss differential. This provision allows you to obtain workers’ compensation benefits for much of the difference between your new wage and your pre-injury one. As a result, even though you must work in a lower-paying role, your paycheck should be similar to the ones you received before you suffered your injury.
Provided you are physically healthy enough to return to work, gainful employment can be good for your mental health. Ultimately, knowing you are not likely to suffer financial hardship by accepting a lower-paying job from your employer should put your mind at ease.
