Understanding Retirement and Your Eligibility for Workers’ Compensation Benefits: Pending Cases at CT Supreme Court

Retirement is a significant milestone in one’s life, representing the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. However, for individuals who have been injured on the job and are receiving workers’ compensation benefits, retirement can raise questions about their eligibility for continued benefits. Currently, there are two cases pending at the Connecticut Supreme Court that may have implications for how retirement impacts workers’ compensation benefits. In this blog post, we will explore these cases and provide insight into what injured workers need to know about retirement and workers’ compensation.

The first case pending at the Connecticut Supreme Court involves a worker who was injured on the job and began receiving workers’ compensation benefits. Several years later, the worker reached retirement age and began receiving Social Security retirement benefits. The employer argued that because the worker was retired, they were no longer eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. The worker, however, argued that their retirement did not impact their entitlement to workers’ compensation benefits since their injury occurred while they were actively employed.

The second case pending at the Connecticut Supreme Court centers around a similar issue but with a slight twist. In this case, the injured worker was offered light-duty work by their employer after reaching retirement age but declined due to ongoing medical issues related to their work injury. The employer argued that since light-duty work was available to the worker but declined, they should not be entitled to continued workers’ compensation benefits.

These cases highlight the complexities that can arise when an injured worker reaches retirement age while still receiving workers’ compensation benefits. It is essential for injured workers to understand how retirement may impact their eligibility for continued benefits and seek legal guidance if they have any questions or concerns.

In general, retiring does not automatically disqualify an individual from receiving workers’ compensation benefits. If an individual can demonstrate that their injury occurred while they were actively employed and continues to impact them post-retirement, they may still be entitled to receive benefits. However, each case is unique, and it is crucial for injured workers to consult with an experienced attorney who can provide personalized advice based on their specific circumstances.

In Summary:

Retirement can raise complex issues for individuals who are receiving workers’ compensation benefits due to a work-related injury. The two cases pending at the Connecticut Supreme Court serve as a reminder of the importance of understanding how retirement may impact eligibility for continued benefits. If you are facing retirement while receiving workers’ compensation benefits or have any doubts about your entitlement to benefits post-retirement, it is advisable to seek legal counsel from a board certified specialist. By staying informed and seeking professional guidance, you can ensure that your rights are protected as you navigate this critical period in your life.

Contact A Stratford, CT Board Certified Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today.

If you or someone you know is currently receiving workers’ compensation benefits, and are considering retirement, a board certified workers’ compensation specialist attorney can help answer any questions you may have about your specific situation. Call the Morizio Law Firm today at 475-338-3505 for a free consultation.