Short and Long Term Disability: What You Need to Know

Are you unable to work, stuck at home, bored, and in pain due to an injury? Short term disability and/or long term disability benefits may be available to you. 

These benefits are available to you if you pay in to a benefit plan or are fortunate enough to have them through your employer. These benefits are used when you are unable to continue working as a result of an injury outside of work (and sometimes while at work).

Typically, an injured person with access to long term disability benefits will first apply for short term disability. Short term disability usually last anywhere from three to six months. This is known as the elimination period. Once this period ends, you may then return to work or apply for long term disability benefits if you’re still unable to work.

Generally speaking, to receive long term disability benefits, an injured person must be unable to complete the essential tasks of their occupation. The test for receiving long term disability benefits changes after two years. In order to continue receiving long term disability benefits you must be unable to complete the essential tasks of any occupation. This is a much more difficult test to meet and often results in the benefit provider denying your claim for long term disability benefits. Remember to always consult your doctor if you are unable to work. If your claim for disability benefits has been denied contact TSF Law now!