One frequently asked question we receive is about when is an injured worker entitled to the supplemental job displacement voucher (“SJDV” for short). Employees injured on or after Jan. 1, 2013, with injuries that result in permanent partial disability, and whose employer does not offer other regular, modified or alternative work, qualify for the SJDB voucher. An offer to return to work must be made within 60 days after receipt by the claims administrator of the Physician’s Return-to-Work & Voucher Report (Form DWC-AD 10133.36). The SJDV voucher amount is $6000 for any level of permanent disability (1% – 100%) and can be used for training at a California public school or any other provider listed on the state’s eligible training provider list. The SJDV can also be used to pay licensing or certification and testing fees, to purchase tools required by a training course, to purchase computer equipment of up to $1,000 and to reimburse up to $500 in miscellaneous expenses. Up to 10 percent, or $600, may be used to pay for the services of a licensed placement agency or vocational counselor. No more than 10 percent of the value of the voucher can be used for vocational & return to work counseling. For injuries on or after Jan. 1, 2013, the SJDV voucher is due within 20 calendar days from the expiration of time for making an offer of regular, modified, or alternative work. The job must pay no less than 85 percent of the worker’s earnings at the time of the injury, and must be expected to last at least 12 months. For injuries on or after Jan. 1, 2013, if the employer makes an offer of regular, modified, or alternative work within 60 days after receipt by the claims administrator of the Physician’s Return-to-Work & Voucher Report and the offer meets certain requirements and you don’t accept the job, you’re not eligible for the voucher. The offer of modified or alternative work must meet the following conditions:
- You have the ability to perform the essential functions of the job
- The job is a regular position lasting at least 12 months
- The job offers wages and compensation that are at least 85 percent of those paid to you at the time of your injury
- The job is located within reasonable commuting distance of your residence at the time of injury.
We always try to help promptly obtain the SJDV for our clients, and we will also recommend you work with a specialist when looking for SJDV opportunities that fit your goals and ambitions. Contact us today if you need help in your workers’ compensation case in obtaining the SJDV – supplemental job displacement voucher.