Teaching Overseas on Military Bases and the Defense Base Act

Posted on Wednesday October 25, 2023

You’ve accepted a job teaching overseas working on a military base. This type of assignment also allows you to enjoy DBA protection. To understand this benefit, it’s helpful to define the Defense Base Act and the reason for this type of worker’s compensation coverage.

What Is the Defense Base Act?

The Defense Base Act (DBA) provides workers’ compensation insurance for employees working outside the U.S. on military bases, or under a contract with the U.S. government. If you’re teaching on an overseas military installation, the DBA protects you in case of injury, disability, or death while at work. Therefore, hiring a DBA lawyer will help you keep current with your rights along these lines.

How the Defense Base Act Protect Educators Working Overseas?

Again, as a teacher abroad, you’ll be covered in case of injury, disability, or death. The DBA provides medical care and compensation for lost wages if you’re hurt on the job. It even covers non-work-related injuries or illnesses as long as you’re employed in a DBA-designated country.

Your school should register you for DBA coverage before you leave for your assignment. Once more, make sure you understand the details of your policy, including how much compensation you’ll receive and for how long. The DBA minimum coverage may not match your full salary, so ask if your school provides additional benefits.

Once overseas, be very careful. High-risk activities can jeopardize your coverage or lead to a denial of certain claims. For example, your insurance likely won’t cover injuries from extreme sports. As always, use common sense to avoid possible issues or misunderstandings.

The DBA protects you so you can focus on the important work of educating children and adults. But you must do your part to stay safe as well. Follow all security guidelines and be vigilant about risks so you’re able to do your job and return home safe and sound. 

The DBA gives you a safety net so you can concentrate on helping students learn and grow. A lawyer who covers DBA cases can also serve as a safety net. Although far from home, you’ll be able to find fulfillment personally and financially in this important role.

Key Considerations for Teachers Accepting Jobs on Military Bases

Your overseas government job should include DBA coverage; otherwise, you could be liable for huge medical bills if injured. Learn all you can about your particular policy and keep records of your coverage.

You’ll also want to consider living conditions on the military base. Housing and amenities can vary significantly between bases. Ask about options for housing, access to transportation, healthcare, shopping, and recreation. Some bases may be quite isolated, so make sure the location and living situation meet your needs when reviewing your benefits.

Finally, think about how you plan to adapt to military life. Bases operate differently than in a typical school environment. Security clearances, curfews, and access restrictions are commonplace. 

Learn about the culture on base and any special protocols you’ll need to follow. Flexibility, adaptability, and resilience are important traits for teachers who take on these types of assignments.

Contact a DBA Lawyer with Your Questions Today

Do you have questions about DBA coverage? If so, you’ll need to contact a lawyer who specializes in DBA cases. Contact Mara Law Firm to learn more about your rights or if you have questions about filing a claim.