Short-Term Disability Insurance: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how short-term disability insurance provides partial income replacement if you are unable to work due to an illness or injury.
Short-term disability insurance is a way to protect your income if an illness or injury prevents you from performing your job duties for a temporary period.
Who it's for
This coverage is available to employees who choose to sign up for it during their employer's benefits enrollment period.
What you get
If you are unable to work because of a medical reason, this insurance provides a portion of your income to help cover your expenses while you recover.
What it costs you
This is not a free benefit. You typically pay for this coverage through monthly premiums that are automatically deducted from your paycheck.
The catch to know
You won't receive payments immediately after you become unable to work. There is usually a "waiting period," which is a set amount of time you must be disabled before your benefits begin.
How to apply
- Review your employer's benefits package during your enrollment window.
- Opt-in to the coverage if you want the protection.
- Contact your employer or insurance provider to file a claim if you become unable to work.