If you’ve been injured on the job in California and are unable to return to your previous position, you may qualify for the Supplemental Job Displacement Benefit (SJDB), commonly referred to as the “voucher.” This voucher is designed to help injured workers transition into new employment through education and retraining. Let’s break it down in plain language so you can understand when you should receive the voucher and what exactly it provides. Please note that this guide is applicable to injuries which occurred after January 1, 2013.
What Is the Voucher?
The SJDB voucher is a $6,000 non-transferable benefit provided to injured workers who are permanently partially disabled and whose employers cannot offer suitable employment. This benefit can be used for education, retraining, tools, and other resources to help you re-enter the workforce.
Key Conditions for Eligibility
To qualify for the voucher:
- Permanent Partial Disability: You must be deemed permanently partially disabled by your doctor.
- No Suitable Job Offer: Your employer must fail to offer you regular, modified, or alternative work within 60 days of receiving a medical report showing your disability is permanent and stationary.
What Counts as a Valid Job Offer?
Your employer’s job offer must meet specific requirements:
- Be for at least 12 months of employment.
- Offer wages and benefits equal to or at least 85% of your pre-injury compensation.
- Be located within a reasonable commuting distance from your home at the time of injury.
If no such offer is made, you’re entitled to the SJDB voucher.
How Can the Voucher Be Used?
The $6,000 voucher covers various expenses, including:
- Tuition and Training Fees: At public schools or approved providers.
- Occupational Licensing and Certification: Includes related exam fees and preparation.
- Career Counseling and Resume Services: Up to $600.
- Tools and Equipment: Specific to your training or education program.
- Computer Equipment: Up to $1,000 for laptops, software, or peripherals.
- Miscellaneous Expenses: A $500 no-questions-asked reimbursement for incidental costs.
The voucher is designed to offer flexibility while focusing on your career recovery.
Don’t Miss the California Return-to-Work Supplement Program
In addition to the voucher, injured workers may qualify for the California Return-to-Work Supplement Program, a one-time payment of $5,000. To be eligible:
- You must have received an SJDB voucher.
- You must apply within one year of the date the voucher is issued.
This program is intended to help cover expenses beyond those reimbursed by the voucher and can make a significant difference during your career transition. You can apply through the Department of Industrial Relations website or call their office for more details.
Deadlines You Need to Know
You must use the voucher within:
- Two years from the date it’s issued, or
- Five years from the date of injury, whichever is later.
Any unused benefits expire after this period. Similarly, the Return-to-Work Supplement must be applied for within the one-year timeframe.
Can the Voucher Be Settled?
For injuries after January 1, 2013, the law prohibits the settlement or cashing out of the voucher. It must be used for its intended purpose of job retraining or career enhancement. However, there can be exceptions to this if your claim is denied. In that situation, you can expect the insurance company will try and settle the voucher as part of the settlement of your case.
Why Should Injured Workers Take Advantage of the Voucher?
The voucher provides an invaluable opportunity to rebuild your career after a workplace injury. Whether you’re considering a new profession, sharpening existing skills, or obtaining certifications, this benefit helps ensure you’re not left behind after an injury. Even if you choose not to use the voucher to go back to school, you should definitely take advantage of the $1,000 for computer expenses, the $500 miscellaneous expense, and the $5,000 from the Return-to-Work Supplement Program.
Need Help Navigating the Workers’ Compensation Process?
Understanding your rights under California workers’ compensation law can be overwhelming. If you’re in Orange County or elsewhere in California and need assistance, or have questions on whether you are entitled to receive the voucher, we are here to help. We’ll guide you through the process, ensure you receive the benefits you deserve, and help you plan for the future.
Contact Ryan D. Kayrell, PC Today
📞Call: (949) 873-2868
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