Is it possible to work another job while on disability?

Law Discussions
1

I’ve been on disability for the past 2 months under Mass. FMLA. The insurance is through MetLife. My company is based in Massachusetts, but I live in Texas. The disability payments are barely enough to cover my bills since I used to make three times this amount. I was a pilot and lost my FAA Medical, which means I can’t fly right now. It might take over 6 months to get it back, if at all. Can I take a different job outside of flying and still get disability payments?

2

It really depends on your MetLife policy. A lot of disability plans are job-specific, so you might be able to work outside of flying.

3

Eli said:
It really depends on your MetLife policy. A lot of disability plans are job-specific, so you might be able to work outside of flying.

Yeah, I’ve heard some policies let you work a non-related job as long as it doesn’t affect your medical condition.

4

Eli said:
It really depends on your MetLife policy. A lot of disability plans are job-specific, so you might be able to work outside of flying.

Good to know! Do you think earning from another job would lower the disability payments?

5

@Zeph
Probably. Most policies have something called an offset, where extra income reduces the benefits you get. Check your plan to be sure.

6

You should try reaching out to MetLife. They should be able to confirm what’s allowed under your disability plan.

7

Hayden said:
You should try reaching out to MetLife. They should be able to confirm what’s allowed under your disability plan.

Good idea. I’ll call them and see if they can explain things clearly. Thanks!

8

Does anyone know how the state laws might affect this? OP is in Texas, but the company is in Massachusetts.

9

LuisGil said:
Does anyone know how the state laws might affect this? OP is in Texas, but the company is in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts laws might apply since that’s where the company is. You could still benefit from their protections even if you’re in Texas.

10

LuisGil said:
Does anyone know how the state laws might affect this? OP is in Texas, but the company is in Massachusetts.

Yeah, that sounds right. State laws could make a difference, especially with FMLA.

11

Have you checked the fine print in your MetLife policy? They usually explain what’s allowed and what’s not.

12

Cruz said:
Have you checked the fine print in your MetLife policy? They usually explain what’s allowed and what’s not.

I haven’t yet, but I’ll look through it. Hopefully, it’s clear about working another job.

13

Quick question—what exactly is FAA Medical? Is it like a certification?

14

Hadden said:
Quick question—what exactly is FAA Medical? Is it like a certification?

Yep, it’s a medical certificate pilots need to show they’re fit to fly. Without it, I can’t work as a pilot.

15

Hadden said:
Quick question—what exactly is FAA Medical? Is it like a certification?

Oh, gotcha. Thanks for explaining. Hope you figure out a way forward!