How to Work with Your Employer When You Need Short-Term Disability Pay

After sustaining injuries, an employee may become incapacitated and thus unable to perform their duties like before. When such an incident happens, the short-term disability cover comes in handy.

Short-term disability is a unique insurance cover that offers some income replacement or compensation for injuries and illnesses sustained outside the workplace that render you unable to perform your duties. It is imperative to note that it only covers non-job-related injuries. Injuries sustained while in the workplace are covered by worker's compensation.

Sick Leave

Some employers provide paid sick leave as a benefit. If your employer compensates for time off due to illness or injury, the first thing you should do is to check whether you qualify for the program. 

Some employers require workers to give notice when they need sick leave. An employee can only take advantage of such a program if the purpose is foreseeable, such as planned surgery or childbirth.

Short Term Disability Benefits

A short-term disability cover guarantees a portion of a worker's salary if the worker is temporarily unable to perform duties due to illness, injury, or pregnancy. The benefits can be offered in several ways. These ways vary from one state to another. 

In some states such as Hawaii, California, New York, Rhode Island, and New Jersey, the benefits are paid through a policy acquired by the employer or through a state fund. If your state doesn't require employers to purchase short term disability cover, your employer might decide to acquire a policy voluntarily.

Regardless of the cover, the programs abide by the same rule. You are entitled to a portion of your salary for a specific period. The percentage you will get is determined by the terms of the plan or by the state.

How Can You File for Short Term Disability?

If you feel that you deserve compensation, the first thing is to ensure that your injury or illness is well documented. According to an unpaid wages lawyer, you need to provide medical backing or evidence when making a claim.

The first thing you should do is consult a doctor and speak honestly about what you are experiencing. After getting a well-prepared medical record, you should approach your HR department to kick off the process of making a claim.

Short-term disability benefits enable an employee to meet their needs even when they can't work due to an illness or injury. Short-term disability benefits are commonly offered for a period of three to six months.