Light Duty Job

Ask your employer about light-duty work.

Let your employer know that you are interested in light-duty work — or doing your old job with an adjustment. Many times, an employer, with or without L&I's help, can find a different job you may do with your medical restrictions, while you recover.

Questions workers have

What are some examples of light-duty work?

.Working shorter hours.
.Performing transitional work. For example, performing some of your original duties, or different duties with lighter physical demands.

.Performing a different job temporarily.

.Working in a modified job. For example, making adjustments to the job or work site to meet your physical limitations, or providing tools, equipment or appliances that allow you to work while recovering.

Do I have to accept any job my employer offers me?

If your employer offers you a job that your doctor approves and you choose not to accept it, you won't be eligible to receive time-loss compensation. However, you aren't required to accept any job that would exceed the restrictions set by your doctor. Any disputes regarding job offers will be decided by your L&I Claim Manager or the Vocational Services Specialist in Self-Insurance.

What if I don't earn as much money doing a light-duty or reduced-hours job?

You may apply for Loss of Earning Power benefits through L&I, or your employer if it's self-insured (find out if your employer is self-insured). Loss of Earning Power benefits may help supplement your salary while you are working if you meet both of the following criteria:
.Your claim is still open.
.Your salary has dropped by more than 5%.

Why would my employer care if I returned quickly to work?

Experienced employees are valuable to your employer. Employers benefit when the cost of your claim is lower, because it means their workers' compensation rates, or costs, don't increase as much.

Will I lose my medical benefits if I return to work?

No. You can continue to received treatment for your industrial injury until your doctor certifies that your treatment is completed.