Expert: Kyla Kelim - 8/7/2008

Question
I work for a retail store and became pregnant.  After being asked to get a doctor's note stating that I cannot unload the trucks b/c of my pregnancy they put me on LOA.  Then I had to get a different note and they let me back for light duty for 8 weeks.  Now next weeks it's the end of my 8 weeks and I am getting put on LOA again until after I have the baby.  I qualify for short/long term disabiltiy.  Can I collect the disability pay from my employer but also work part time at another job?

Answer
Typically, a doctor must certify that you are disabled and cannot work in order for short term disability benefits to kick in.  If you are actually working during this time, I would imagine your contract will require you to repay the std benefits.  I would read the policy carefully and seek local counsel to assist you with specific provisions you may not understand.

I hope this helps,

Kyla Kelim