Income protection when life takes an unexpected turn
Short-term disability insurance is designed to replace a portion of your income if you are temporarily unable to work due to illness, injury, or recovery from surgery. It provides a financial safety net during times when your health prevents you from earning a paycheck.
What does short-term disability insurance cover?
This type of coverage typically applies to non-work-related injuries or medical conditions that keep you from performing your job. Common reasons for filing a claim include back injuries, recovery from surgery, pregnancy or childbirth, and certain illnesses.
Short-term disability does not cover workplace injuries, which are usually handled through workers’ compensation.
How it works
After a qualifying event, there is usually a waiting or elimination period before benefits begin. This can range from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the policy. Once the waiting period is over, you will receive the benefits as outlined in the policy.
Benefits typically last anywhere from a few weeks up to six months. The length of coverage and the percentage of income replaced will vary by plan.
Who needs short-term disability insurance?
Anyone who relies on a paycheck to meet everyday expenses can benefit from short-term disability coverage. It is especially valuable for individuals who:
- Do not have enough savings to cover several months without income
- Work in physically demanding roles with a higher risk of injury
- Are self-employed or lack access to employer-provided disability benefits
Want financial protection during maternity leave or medical recovery
Why it matters
Being unable to work for even a short time can place a serious strain on your finances. Rent, mortgage payments, utility bills, and groceries do not stop just because you are recovering. Short-term disability insurance helps bridge the gap so you can focus on healing instead of worrying about lost income.
