If you are seriously injured while working, you may no longer be able to perform the tasks needed to do your job. In the state of California, workers injured on the job may receive workers’ compensation benefits to pay medical bills and supplement their income while unable to work.
If you are permanently disabled after an injury and unable to return to your old job, you may be eligible for a supplemental job displacement benefits voucher (SJDB). This voucher funds job training so you can confidently start a new job in which you can fulfill the necessary tasks to excel. What should you know about supplemental job displacement vouchers?
What do SJDB vouchers provide workers?
For all injuries occurring after 2013, permanently disabled employees may be eligible to receive a voucher for up to $6,000. These vouchers can be redeemed for job training in a California public school, or another eligible provider approved by the state of California. You can also use the voucher to pay for testing fees, additional licensing or certification credentials. You may use up to $1,000 to pay for computer equipment, $600 on a job placement agency and $500 on other expenses.
You have 2 years past the date of issue or 5 years past the date of your injury, whichever is later, to use the voucher before it expires.
Can all injured workers receive a SJDB voucher?
Vouchers are only available to permanently disabled workers whose current employer does not offer an alternative work offer. Your employer has 60 days after a Physician’s Return-to-Work & Voucher Report claim is filed to offer you an alternative position.
For the job offer to be viable, your employer must offer you at least 85 percent of your previous wages, the position must last for at least a year, it must be within a reasonable commuting distance and you need to be able to effectively perform the job tasks. If you reject a viable job offer by your employer, you are not eligible for a SJDB voucher.
Workers’ compensation can be difficult to navigate, especially in the emotional wake of a serious injury. If you need help representing your case, contact an attorney who can help you understand your rights and get the help that you deserve.