When you’re coping with a disability, the world of disability programs can be overwhelming and confusing. It’s challenging to know where to start and what types of disability benefits are available to you at such a difficult time.

However, it’s important to remember that you are not alone and help is available. Gaining a better understanding of the different options for benefits can provide you with some much-needed peace of mind.

We also highly recommend seeking advice from an experienced disability insurance lawyer when filing an insurance claim. Their expertise can significantly increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome, giving you more hope for a better future.

In this guide, we’ll discuss the most common types of benefits, eligibility requirements, and important considerations to keep in mind when applying.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

Overview of the different types of disability benefits

In the U.S., there are various resources available to support you if you are unable to work due to a disability. Disability benefits may be available through federal programs, state programs, and private insurance companies.

  • Short-Term Disability: Typically provided by employers and offer a percentage of your salary for a limited period of time, usually up to six months.
  • Long-Term Disability: Designed to provide financial support for a longer period of time, often until retirement age, if you are unable to work due to a disability.
  • Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Available if you have paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes and have a qualifying disability.
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI): A needs-based program if you disabled and have limited income and resources.
  • State Disability Insurance: Only available in a limited number of states, but generally provides short-term benefits for individuals who are unable to work due to a non-work-related injury or illness.

Each type of benefit has specific eligibility requirements, benefit amounts, and durations. You need to understand the differences so you don’t waste valuable time applying for benefits you don’t qualify for. Keep reading to learn more details about each of these.

Short-Term Disability

Short-term disability (STD) insurance is commonly the first place people turn to when a disability prevents them from working. It provides a percentage of income replacement for a limited period, typically a few weeks up to six months.

This temporary financial support can help cover your expenses during the initial disability period, providing some relief while you focus on recovery. While receiving short-term disability, you can also explore other options for financial support and file for other types of disability benefits, such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Long-Term Disability. However, you should consult a disability attorney to understand how all the different benefits might work with or against each other.

  • Eligibility: You will typically need to be an active employee meeting minimum work hour requirements, provide medical evidence of a disabling condition as defined by the policy, and fulfill any waiting period and pre-existing condition exclusions. Be sure to check your policy documents for details as eligibility requirements will vary based on the policy and provider.
  • Benefits: Provides a portion of your salary (typically 50-70%) for a short period during which the individual is unable to work due to a temporary disability.
  • Duration: Typically provides coverage from a few weeks up to six months.

Read also: 7 Reasons Why Short-Term Disability Can Be Denied

Long-Term Disability

Long-term disability (LTD) insurance is meant to provide income replacement for an extended period of time, typically until retirement age, if you are unable to work due to a permanent disability. Compared to short-term disability insurance, LTD typically covers a higher percentage of income, providing more financial security for the long term.

Unfortunately, the process to qualify for LTD benefits is lengthy and complicated by design, especially if your policy is governed by ERISA, which most policies are. It’s important to consult an experienced disability insurance attorney who specializes in ERISA law when filing a claim. They can guide you through the process and help you avoid critical mistakes.

  • Eligibility: Similar to STD, your insurance policy’s definition of disability, waiting periods, and any pre-existing condition clauses can impact your eligibility.
  • Benefits: Provides a portion of the worker’s salary (typically 50-70%) if you are unable to work for an extended period due to a disability.
  • Duration: This can extend from several months to retirement age, depending on the policy.

Read more: Understand the differences between STD vs LTD insurance.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is similar to a long-term disability insurance policy, except it is a federal program offered through the Social Security Administration, not a private insurance provider.

SSDI benefits can offer financial support if you are unable to work due to a disability that is expected to last at least one year or result in death.

  • Eligibility: You will need to have worked and paid into the Social Security trust fund through payroll taxes, generally at least five of the last ten years. You must also meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability.
  • Benefits: Monthly cash benefits based on your previous earnings.
  • Duration: Benefits continue as long as you remain disabled and unable to work. After 24 months of receiving SSDI, you may also be eligible for Medicare.

To apply for SSDI, contact your local Social Security office or apply online.

Learn more: LTD vs. SSDI Benefits: What’s the Difference?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program designed for low-income individuals who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 or older. Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance, SSI benefits are need-based and do not require a work history.

  • Eligibility: Based on financial need rather than work history. You must have limited income and resources and be disabled, blind, or aged 65 or older.
  • Benefits: Provides monthly benefits to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter. The amount of SSI benefits you receive is based on your income and resources and can vary from state to state.
  • Duration: Benefits continue as long as you remain disabled and meet the financial criteria.

To apply for Supplemental Security Income, contact the Social Security Administration or visit their website.

State Disability Insurance

Some states offer state disability insurance programs that provide benefits to individuals who are unable to work due to a temporary disability. These programs are funded through payroll taxes and provide a percentage of your income for a specified period of time.

State disability insurance can help to bridge the gap between short-term disability and long-term disability benefits.

  • Availability: Only offered in a few states, including California, New York, New Jersey, Hawaii, and Rhode Island.
  • Eligibility: Available to workers who are unable to work due to a non-work-related illness, injury, or pregnancy.
  • Benefits: Temporary cash benefits, typically a percentage of the worker’s wages.
  • Duration: Varies by state, generally from a few weeks up to one year.

Some states, such as Washington, also offer programs like Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML), which can work in tandem with other types of benefits. Learn more about Washington’s PFML program.

Help is available

While the process of applying for disability benefits might seem daunting, you are not alone in this journey. There are resources available to support you every step of the way. By understanding your options and seeking expert help, you can better navigate the process with greater ease and peace of mind.

Also, keep in mind that the process of filing disability insurance claims is complicated by design. Our team at Roy Law Group specializes in long-term disability law and ERISA, and we can handle all of the details for you. Disability law is all we do, and we know what it takes to win against the insurance companies.

Reach out to us for a free consultation today.