In Iowa, whether you can work while waiting on a workers’ compensation claim depends on the benefits you receive and your medical condition. Here’s how returning to work affects different types of workers’ compensation benefits:
Medical care
Medical care continues as long as the treatment is necessary and related to the work injury. Even if you return to work, you still receive medical care for your injury. This includes follow-up visits, rehabilitation and any other necessary treatments.
Healing period (HP)
You start receiving HP benefits on the first day of disability after your injury. These benefits continue until you return to work, significant medical improvement is not expected, or you are medically capable of returning to a similar job. Generally, returning to work will end HP benefits.
Temporary partial disability (TPD)
You start receiving TPD benefits on the 4th day of disability, with a 3-day waiting period. These benefits end when you return to your regular job, are medically capable of returning to a similar job or fully recover from your injury. However, if you return to work at a lesser-paying job due to your temporary partial disability, you may still receive TPD benefits.
Temporary total disability (TTD)
You start receiving TTD benefits on the 4th day of disability, with a 3-day waiting period. These benefits stop when you return to work or are medically capable of returning to a similar job. If you return to work before your claim is resolved, you may no longer be eligible for TTD benefits.
Permanent partial disability (PPD)
The disability rating establishes PPD benefits for a set number of weeks. These benefits continue regardless of whether you return to work. This means that even if you resume employment, you will still receive PPD benefits for the duration specified by your disability rating.
Permanent total disability (PTD)
PTD benefits continue as long as you remain permanently disabled. These benefits are contingent on your inability to return to any form of gainful employment. If your condition improves to the point where you can return to work, the benefits may be re-evaluated.
If there are disputes regarding your benefits or medical care, you can contact a compliance administrator in the Workers’ Compensation Commissioner’s office to discuss other options and alternatives. It is advisable to seek legal representation when dealing with complex workers’ compensation issues.
You may be able to work while waiting on your workers’ compensation claim, but doing so can impact the type and duration of benefits you receive. It’s crucial to communicate with your employer, attorney and the insurance carrier about your return to work and any changes in your medical condition.