If you're receiving workers' comp benefits in Vermont, you may wonder if leaving your job could put those benefits at risk. Here's what to know before making a move.

Vermont Workers’ Compensation: What Stays in Place If You Quit?

In Vermont, quitting your job does not automatically disqualify you from receiving workers’ compensation benefits. If your injury occurred on the job and your claim has been accepted, you’re still entitled to receive medical coverage and any wage replacement (also called temporary disability benefits) that has been approved.

Workers’ comp is not tied to your employment status after the injury. It’s based on when and how the injury occurred, not whether you remain at the same job. However, quitting may complicate your claim—especially when it comes to lost wages and future benefits.

How Quitting Affects Vermont Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Benefits

Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits in Vermont are designed to replace part of your income if you're unable to work due to a workplace injury. But quitting during your recovery can create complications. Here's why:

• Quitting voluntarily may limit your eligibility for ongoing wage replacement if the employer can argue that you left suitable light-duty work.
• If your doctor clears you for light or modified work and your employer offers it, turning it down (or quitting) could end your TTD benefits.
• If no light-duty work is available and you are still medically unable to return to your pre-injury role, you may continue receiving TTD, even after quitting.

The Vermont Department of Labor will review the specifics of your case, including whether your departure was reasonable given the circumstances.

Can You Still Receive Medical Benefits Through Workers' Comp After Quitting?

Yes. Medical benefits under Vermont workers’ comp law do not end just because you leave your job. As long as the treatment is authorized and related to the workplace injury, your employer’s workers’ comp insurer remains responsible for your medical bills.

This includes:

• Doctor visits
• Surgery and rehabilitation
• Prescription medications
• Medical equipment

The key requirement is that treatment remains reasonable, necessary, and related to the injury.

Vocational Rehabilitation May Still Be Available

In Vermont, injured workers who can’t return to their prior occupation may qualify for vocational rehabilitation services, which help them retrain or transition to a new career. Quitting your job doesn't necessarily disqualify you from these services.

However, you may need to demonstrate that you’re actively cooperating with the vocational counselor assigned to your case. The goal of the program is to restore your ability to earn wages comparable to what you earned before the injury—whether at the same employer or elsewhere.

Potential Downsides of Quitting While on Workers’ Comp

Leaving your job while on workers' compensation can impact your case in the following ways:

• Lost wage benefits might stop if your employer had offered modified work within your restrictions.
• Insurance companies may challenge your continued need for benefits, especially if they believe the quit was strategic or unnecessary.
• Job loss can reduce leverage in negotiations for a workers’ comp settlement, particularly if your employer was accommodating your restrictions.

It's often better to speak with an attorney before resigning to make sure you're not forfeiting rights or undermining your claim.

When Quitting Your Job May Make Sense

There are situations where quitting your job while on workers’ comp may be reasonable or even necessary:

• Toxic work environment: If the injury occurred in a hostile or unsafe environment, and your mental or physical health is at risk, leaving may be justifiable.
• Relocation or family needs: Sometimes life circumstances—like a spouse’s job transfer—make continuing employment impossible.
• Better job opportunities: If you’ve recovered enough to work and are offered a role that suits your needs better, you may transition, though it’s wise to confirm with your doctor and the insurance adjuster first.

In any of these cases, document everything carefully, and speak to a workers’ compensation lawyer before submitting your resignation.

Can I Switch Jobs While Still Receiving Workers' Comp Benefits in Vermont?

Yes, you can begin working somewhere else while still receiving certain workers' comp benefits—but doing so may reduce or end your wage loss benefits, depending on how much you're earning.

• If your new job pays less than your old one due to injury-related restrictions, you may qualify for Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) benefits to make up part of the difference.
• If you begin earning equal or higher wages, your wage loss benefits will likely stop, but your medical benefits can still continue.

Any change in employment status should be reported immediately to the insurer and your medical provider to avoid issues or overpayment.

Legal Guidance Is Strongly Recommended

Vermont’s workers’ compensation system has many nuances, especially when it comes to employment changes during a claim. An attorney who focuses on Vermont workers’ compensation law can help you:

• Weigh the pros and cons of quitting
• Ensure you retain access to key benefits
• Challenge any attempt by the insurer to cut off benefits unfairly
• Explore settlement options that account for your future needs

Because quitting could open the door to disputes, it’s important to approach the decision carefully and strategically.

Conclusion

Quitting your job while on workers’ compensation in Vermont doesn't automatically end your benefits, but it can raise red flags and potentially reduce or delay the support you receive. Medical coverage usually continues, but wage replacement may be challenged depending on the circumstances. Before making any moves, consult with a qualified workers’ comp attorney to protect your rights and avoid costly mistakes.

Need Legal Help? Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law is One Phone Call Away

Navigating Vermont Workers’ Compensation claims can be challenging. Fortunately, you don't need to do it alone. The experienced lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, are available 24/7 to help you understand your legal options, gather necessary evidence, and build a strong case to secure the settlement you deserve.

Contact us now for a free legal review.