Injured workers in Massachusetts often wonder whether taking a vacation while receiving workers’ compensation is allowed—or if it could jeopardize their benefits.

What Massachusetts Workers’ Compensation Allows

Massachusetts law does not explicitly prohibit injured employees from traveling or going on vacation while receiving workers’ compensation. However, there are limits. Workers receiving benefits must continue to meet eligibility requirements during their time away from home, including following medical advice, attending necessary appointments, and avoiding activities that could contradict the nature of their injury.

Traveling on its own isn’t a violation. But how the injured worker behaves during that travel matters. Insurance companies and employers often monitor claimants for signs of fraud, including vacation activities that appear inconsistent with reported injuries.

The Risk of Insurance Surveillance While on Vacation

Insurers are known to hire private investigators to observe claimants—especially if there’s suspicion of exaggerated injuries or extended time off. Vacation photos or social media posts showing physically demanding activities, such as hiking, skiing, or carrying heavy luggage, may be used as evidence to dispute a claim.

Even something as seemingly harmless as walking long distances at an amusement park or swimming could be interpreted as evidence that the injury is not as serious as claimed. If this happens, benefits can be reduced or terminated, and in extreme cases, fraud allegations may follow.

To minimize risk:

• Refrain from posting on social media about your trip.
• Do not engage in activities that go against your doctor’s orders.
• Continue attending scheduled medical appointments or arrange alternative care if you’ll be away.

Doctor’s Orders and Medical Compliance Are Non-Negotiable in Workers' Comp

While workers’ comp allows for some flexibility, it does not excuse non-compliance with treatment. Missing appointments or failing to follow a prescribed rehabilitation plan could hurt your claim—vacation or not.

If you need to travel during your recovery, it’s smart to get written clearance from your treating physician. This helps document that your travel is consistent with your recovery plan. If the vacation disrupts physical therapy sessions or important evaluations, insurers may interpret that as neglecting your recovery.

Physician documentation should confirm:

• The travel won’t delay or hinder recovery.
• You are medically stable to travel.
• The trip won’t involve any restricted physical activity.

Impact on Temporary Total and Partial Disability Benefits in Massachusetts

Massachusetts workers typically receive one of the following benefit types during recovery:

• Temporary Total Incapacity Benefits (TTIB): Paid when the injury prevents any work.
• Temporary Partial Incapacity Benefits (TPIB): Paid when the injury limits work capacity but doesn’t eliminate it entirely.

For both, vacationing can be permitted if the worker remains within the limits of their medical restrictions. However, if a vacation is paired with work (e.g., remote freelancing or helping with a family business), this may conflict with benefit eligibility. Workers’ compensation benefits are intended to replace lost income from an inability to work. If you’re working—even lightly—this can be flagged as an overpayment or misrepresentation.

Workers' Comp and Out-of-State or International Travel Considerations

Traveling out of Massachusetts—or out of the country—adds more complexity. Workers’ compensation doctors may only be licensed within the state. Leaving the jurisdiction could mean skipping mandatory exams, evaluations, or court appearances.

Massachusetts law also allows insurers to request periodic Independent Medical Exams (IMEs). Missing one can have serious consequences. If you plan to be gone for an extended time, you may need to reschedule the IME or risk having benefits suspended until you appear.

Before leaving the state or country:

• Inform your attorney (if you have one).
• Notify the insurer in advance.
• Coordinate with healthcare providers for any missed treatments.

How Vacation Behavior Could Affect a Workers’ Comp Claim in Massachusetts

Even if travel is approved, how you behave while on vacation matters. Courts and insurers look closely at whether activities are consistent with the injury being claimed.

For example:

• A shoulder injury claimant seen carrying large suitcases may raise red flags.
• A back injury claimant photographed jet-skiing could be accused of exaggeration.

These scenarios can result in:

• Benefit suspension or termination
• Increased surveillance after return
• Possible fraud investigations

Should You Tell the Insurance Carrier About Your Vacation?

It’s not legally required to tell your employer or insurance carrier that you’re taking a vacation. However, failing to communicate could work against you if questions arise later.

Transparency can help establish that you’re not trying to hide anything and that you’re still committed to your recovery. Many attorneys recommend notifying the claims adjuster of your travel plans, especially if appointments will be missed or if treatment needs to be rescheduled.

Documentation protects your claim. A short note from your doctor and a heads-up to the insurer may prevent misinterpretations down the line.

Why Legal Guidance Matters for Travel During Workers’ Comp

Navigating the rules of workers’ compensation while considering a vacation is a balancing act. The law technically allows it, but insurance carriers are always watching for inconsistencies.

A workers’ compensation attorney can help assess the risk of travel, assist in notifying the right parties, and advise on protecting your benefits. If your benefits are suspended after a trip or if you’re accused of violating medical restrictions, legal guidance becomes especially important.

Legal support can also help:

• Reschedule IMEs or treatment while traveling
• Respond to benefit suspension notices
• Defend against false allegations of fraud

Conclusion

Going on vacation while receiving workers’ compensation benefits in Massachusetts is not outright forbidden—but it requires caution, medical approval, and transparency. The risk lies not in the travel itself, but in how that travel aligns with your injury and recovery obligations. By securing proper documentation and avoiding any activity that might contradict your claimed injuries, you can enjoy a break without jeopardizing your benefits. When in doubt, consult a workers’ compensation attorney to avoid mistakes that could cost you.

Injured? The Office of Brandon J. Broderick, Workers Compensation Lawyers, Can Help

If the unfortunate happens and you’ve been injured in an accident in Massachusetts, don’t go at it alone. An experienced lawyer can advocate for your best interest and pursue fair compensation for your damages. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, you can count on us to work tirelessly for your quality of life. Our long track record of success has helped people like you move forward after sustaining an injury caused by another’s negligence. 

Contact us now for a free legal review.