What Is California’s Return-to-Work Supplement Program?

 Posted on August 22, 2025 in Workplace Injuries

In addition to workers’ compensation benefits, California offers the Return-to-Work Supplement Program (RTWSP), which provides a single $5,000 payment to certain injured workers after a job-related injury. The goal is to help close income gaps when permanent limits make it hard to return to the same work. A Santa Clara County, CA workers' compensation attorney can help you confirm eligibility, gather the right documents, and submit a timely, complete application.

Understanding the Return-to-Work Supplement Program in California

The RTWSP works alongside your regular workers’ compensation benefits. It is a separate payment designed to support your transition back to steady employment. The program is regulated under 8 CCR § 17300 under the control of the Director of Industrial Relations. 

If your application is approved, you receive a one-time $5,000 payment. This supplement does not replace temporary disability, permanent disability, or medical treatment, and it does not reduce other benefits on your claim. Think of it as short-term support while you train for new work or search for a job that fits your medical limits. You apply online, and payment is issued after the director verifies your eligibility.

Eligibility for the Return-to-Work Supplement Program in California

To qualify for the RTWSP, you must meet each of the following criteria:

• Your date of injury is on or after January 1, 2013, as explained in 8 CCR § 17302.

• You received a Supplemental Job Displacement Benefit (SJDB) voucher on the claim connected to your injury.

• You apply within one year of the date the voucher was served.

• You submit the online application with your claim number, voucher details, and current contact information.

• You remain otherwise eligible for workers’ compensation benefits on the claim related to the voucher.

If you are unsure about any of the requirements, talk to your attorney. Acting early helps you avoid missing the one-year window.

What Are Supplemental Job Displacement Benefit Vouchers in California?

Think of the Supplemental Job Displacement Benefit (SJDB) voucher as the key that opens the Return-to-Work Supplement Program. Under Labor Code § 4658.7, you may receive a voucher when a work injury leaves you with a permanent partial disability and your employer does not make a timely offer of regular, modified, or alternative work that meets legal standards.

The voucher can reimburse up to $6,000 in approved costs. These costs may include tuition for accredited training, licensing or certification fees, exam charges, and certain tools or equipment needed to retrain. If you have questions about filing for this voucher or if you think you should have received a voucher when you did not, talk to an experienced attorney immediately.

Contact a Morgan Hill, CA Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today

At Cramer + Martinez, our office has supported injured workers in Gilroy and nearby communities for nearly 30 years, and our current team brings more than 20 years of combined experience focused on workers’ compensation cases. Working with one of our Santa Clara County, CA workers’ compensation lawyers means that you have experienced representation. We can confirm what benefits you should receive, prepare a complete RTWSP filing, and follow up on any delay or denial so you get help when you need it most. For clear guidance and timely action, contact us today at 408-848-1113 to schedule your free consultation. We also provide services in Spanish.