Part-time employment is becoming more common and is often the only job people can find. Employers do not have to provide many types of benefits to part-time workers and this is a big cost saving measure. Employers often do not have to provide health insurance to part-time employees and if they don’t work more than 1,250 hours in a given year, they are not eligible for Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) protection if they miss time from work. Fortunately if you are hurt at work, you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.
Employers are required to provide injured part-time workers with medical treatment for their injuries. This is a requirement whether or not your employer provides you with private health insurance benefits.
You are entitled to temporary disability benefits if you’re hurt at your part-time job. Your out of work benefits are based on your part-time salary. However there is a minimum rate that you have to be paid, regardless of what you actually earned at work. In 2013 the minimum workers’ compensation rate is $220.00 per week, whether or not you earned this much before your injury.
If you have more than one job, you may be able to collect New Jersey State Temporary Disability Benefits for the second job. This can help supplement your income if you’re going to have to miss work. If you’re taken out of work, you cannot work at a second job without obtaining permission from the doctor and insurance carrier.
Many issues arise when someone is injured on a part-time job. Just know that you are entitled to medical benefits, temporary disability payments and a dollar award for any permanent injuries. If you’ve been hurt at work, contact me directly with any questions.