Working overseas presents you with many unique opportunities to develop your skills and contribute to an objective that will benefit lots of people. One of your top priorities is to stay safe and to return home with your health and well-being intact.
If you do encounter a situation where dangerous conditions compromise your safety and an injury happens, you may seek financial assistance to make up for lost wages while you recover. Understanding where to turn for help during these times may help you to save valuable resources.
Determining your eligibility
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, certain criteria will determine your eligibility to receive benefits under the Defense Base Act. Your situation must fall under one or more of the following categories:
- You are an employee of an American organization tasked with providing welfare services to members of the armed forces.
- You are working on a construction project related to warfare, and are under contract with the U.S. government.
- You are an employee of a private company that provides a necessary service for military members and their families on a military base.
Your employment status and the details of your specific situation determine your eligibility. Your nationality and has nothing to do with your eligibility.
Getting the help you need
Because the law requires that any company under contract with the U.S. government provide adequate workers’ compensation insurance for their employees, you should receive the help you need so long as you can produce the evidence that your injury is work-related. Filing for help as soon as you recognize a need may help you to begin receiving benefits as soon as possible so you can focus on your recovery.
