Working a second job while you are on workers’ compensation is not automatically forbidden, but it can affect your benefits and how your claim is viewed. The key question is whether the second job is consistent with your medical restrictions, and whether you have reported the work and earnings to the insurer. Getting this wrong can create a dispute about temporary benefits and credibility, so be careful and transparent.
How a second job can affect TTD
Temporary total disability is paid when you cannot work at all because of the injury. If you are working a second job, the insurer may argue you are not totally disabled, or that your earnings should be taken into account. If you are working light duty at reduced pay, temporary partial disability may be the relevant benefit instead. The effect depends on the hours, the duties, and whether the second job was already held before the injury.
Restrictions come first
Your doctor’s restrictions apply to all work, not just the job where you were hurt. A second job that requires lifting, standing, or repetitive tasks beyond your restrictions can harm your recovery and can be used against you if you are seen doing work your doctor said you should not do. If you take a second job, it should be within your current restrictions, and you should keep a record of the duties and hours.
Be open about work and earnings
- Tell the insurer and your doctor about any second job, and report earnings honestly.
- Keep pay records, schedules, and a description of the duties.
- Do not hide a second job from surveillance or social media checks: the work may be discovered anyway.
- If the insurer asks about other work, answer truthfully and in writing where possible.
- Ask in writing whether the second job changes your benefit type or amount, before you rely on an assumption.
Related guides and questions
Read Return to Work and Light Duty and Benefits Overview. For advice about benefits where a second job is involved, see Connect With a Lawyer.
Verify against the IWCC
Rules and procedures can depend on the facts of a case. Check the current rules with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission before relying on anything on this page. If you are seriously hurt, get emergency care first.
This page is general information only. It is not medical advice, not legal advice, and this site is not a law firm. See the Disclaimer.