Short-Term and Long-Term Disability

A Short-Term and Long-Term Disability policy explains who's eligible for disability benefits, how to enroll and file a claim, what pay replacement and waiting periods apply, and how disability coverage coordinates with job-protected leave and any state-required disability programs.

How to Write a Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Policy

• Start with "why" and introduce the concept.
• Define short-term disability and long-term disability as income-replacement benefits for employees who cannot work due to illness or injury.
• State who is eligible for coverage.
• Explain who pays for the coverage.
• Clarify that disability benefits are separate from job-protected leave and cross-reference your leave policies for time off.
• Describe the short-term disability benefit at a high level, including the insurer, general benefit amount, and medical certification requirement.
• Describe the long-term disability benefit at a high level, including the insurer, general benefit amount, and medical certification requirement.
• Explain how short-term disability can transition to long-term disability.
• List where employees can go with questions.

For advice on writing a Short-Term and Long-Term Disability policy in a specific jurisdiction, see below.