Waiting weeks or months for work-related surgery can be stressful when your injury also keeps you from earning your regular paycheck. If you receive time-loss benefits through Washington Labor & Industries (L&I), you may wonder whether those payments can continue while you wait for your procedure.
In many cases, they can. However, having surgery scheduled does not automatically guarantee continued benefits. Your ability to work and current medical restrictions all matter.
When time-loss benefits may continue
Washington law allows time-loss compensation while a work injury temporarily prevents you from working. Your medical provider must document how your condition affects your ability to work.
If you remain unable to perform regular work because of your work injury, you may continue receiving time-loss benefits while you wait for surgery. Your provider may need to update L&I about your work status and restrictions through an Activity Prescription Form (APF).
If your condition improves or you return to work, L&I may reduce or stop your time-loss payments.
How light-duty work can affect your payments
You may not have to return to your regular job before surgery if your medical restrictions prevent it. However, your employer may offer temporary light-duty work. If your employer does not have suitable work within your restrictions and your injury still prevents you from working, you may remain eligible for time-loss benefits.
Your provider must first decide whether the job fits your restrictions. If you return to approved light-duty work for fewer hours or lower pay and lose more than 5% of your pre-injury earning power, you may qualify for loss of earning power (LEP) benefits.
While waiting for surgery, you can help keep your claim information current by:
- Attending recommended medical appointments
- Telling your provider about changes in your symptoms or ability to work
- Informing your L&I claims manager if your surgery date changes
Keeping your claim information current can also help L&I evaluate any changes that affect your benefits.
Know what can affect your benefits while you wait
Your time-loss benefits may continue while you wait for surgery, but changes in your work or medical status can affect what you receive. Keep track of L&I notices and changes in your work or treatment status so you know when something requires your attention. If your payments stop unexpectedly or you disagree with a light-duty decision, legal guidance can help you understand the decision and what options may be available under your claim.