If you're currently receiving workers' compensation, you might be wondering: can you still work? Could taking a part-time job or modified duty role put your benefits at risk? These are important questions—and answering them correctly can help protect your health, your income, and your future.
Can You Work While Receiving Workers' Compensation Benefits in Pennsylvania?
Workers' compensation is designed to cover medical treatment and provide wage-loss benefits for injured workers who can’t perform their regular job duties. While benefits typically cover up to two-thirds of your average weekly wage, there are cases where an injured worker may still be able to take on limited work or part-time employment.
In Pennsylvania, you can sometimes work and receive workers' comp benefits—but only under specific circumstances.
If your doctor has cleared you for light-duty or part-time work, and your earnings are less than what you made before your injury, you may still be entitled to partial wage-loss benefits. These cases are delicate, though—mistakes or misunderstandings can lead to reduced benefits or even a complete termination of your claim.
Understanding Total vs. Partial Disability Benefits
Pennsylvania workers’ compensation law separates injuries into two broad categories: total and partial disability.
- If you’re deemed totally disabled, it means you can’t work at all. You’ll receive full wage-loss benefits.
- If you’re classified as partially disabled, you may be able to work in a limited capacity. Your benefits will likely be reduced to reflect the difference between what you used to earn and what you're able to earn now.
In general, the calculation for partial disability benefits equals two-thirds of the difference between your pre-injury earnings and your current wages.
Reporting Income & Avoiding Fraud
If you decide to return to work, even part-time, it’s essential that you report all earnings to your employer and their insurance carrier. Failing to report income could result in a fraud investigation, the loss of your benefits, and even criminal charges.
It’s also important to communicate clearly with your doctor and employer about your work restrictions. For example, a construction worker who sustains a back injury might take a part-time desk job while continuing treatment. If they’re still under medical restrictions, they may be eligible for partial workers’ comp benefits. But if their employer or insurer believes the new role means they’re fully recovered, they could try to reduce or cut off benefits altogether.
How Returning to Work Can Affect Long-Term Benefits
Getting back on the job can be a sign of progress, but it may also change how your claim is handled. Insurers might point to your return to work as evidence that you’re no longer disabled. They may also conduct a Labor Market Survey to argue that suitable jobs are available and try to reduce your benefits based on what you could be earning.
If you’re facing pressure to return to work or are already working while receiving benefits, it’s wise to speak with an attorney who can advocate for your long-term interests and help ensure your rights stay protected.
Talk to a Pennsylvania Workers' Compensation Lawyer
At Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC, we've been helping injured workers in Central Pennsylvania for more than 100 years. We’ve handled thousands of workers' compensation claims—whether it’s negotiating light-duty restrictions, disputing premature benefit terminations, or guiding clients through complex return-to-work situations.
One of our attorneys is a certified specialist in workers’ comp law by the Pennsylvania Bar Association, a distinction granted by the PA Supreme Court. We have the knowledge, resources, and dedication to fight for the benefits you deserve.
If you're thinking about returning to work—or already have—while receiving benefits, don’t make any decisions until you talk to our team. We offer free consultations, and you won’t pay anything unless we win for you.
Call (888) 498-3023 or contact us online to get started.