What is Vocational Rehabilitation?Vocational rehabilitation is a type of worker's compensation benefit. If a permanent, work-related injury leaves you unable to return to the type of work you used to do, you could be entitled to vocational rehabilitation to train you for a job that you can comfortably do with the restrictions caused by the injury.
Am I Eligible for Vocational Rehabilitation?There are two requirements for an injured worker to qualify for vocational rehabilitation benefits:
1. A doctor must find that the injury caused a permanent disability and left you unable to do your former job, and
2. You must be physically and emotionally capable of returning to work. What If My Employer Offers Me Another Position?If you are unable to return to your former job, your employer might decide to offer you another position within the company. In order to not jeopardize your future right to vocational rehabilitation benefits, you must accept the job your employer offers if it provides wages within 15% of what you earned at the time of your injury. Should I Contact an Attorney to Get Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits?Vocational rehabilitation is expensive for your employer's insurance company, and they may try to resist having a program designed for you. You should contact an attorney if your employer's insurance company refuses to offer vocational rehabilitation benefits despite your eligibility. An attorney will be able to argue your eligibility on your behalf and make sure that you do not do anything that would jeopardize your right to future vocational rehabilitation benefits. |
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