You may be entitled to a training voucher (called “a Supplemental Job Displacement Benefit,” or SJDB) if your injury causes permanent disability and your employer does not provide you with a written offer to return to work for a position to last at least 12 months.  (For seasonal employees, the 12-month position does not need to be continuous.)  This is the general rule, but there are exceptions and requirements for both the employer and employee. 

For injuries and conditions with dates of injury of 2004 to 2012, the voucher amount ranges from $4,000 to $10,000, depending upon the severity of your impairment.  For those with dates of injury during 2013 and beyond, the voucher amount is $6,000. 

The voucher can be used for a number of purposes, such as training and education, tuition, fees, books, vocational counseling, occupational licensing, professional certification fees, computer equipment, and more, all subject to certain limits.  (Some of these items may only be allowable for conditions with dates of injury after January 1, 2013.)

Return-To-Work Supplemental Program            

In addition to the training voucher/SJDB, you may be eligible for a supplemental $5000 payment under the Return-To-Work Supplement Program if your date of injury is on or after January 1, 2013. 

In addition, if the employee is not able to return to their usual job, he or she may be eligible for help to transition to a new job.  In California, the employee may be eligible for a training voucher.